In the episode we going to wrap up our mini-series about ichi gan, ni soku, san tan, shi riki as we take a deeper look into the forth and final element riki: technique & power. The forth element, is literally power, but is often referred to as technique. This alludes to the fact that real power is created from correct technique, rather than physical strength. This final principle relies on the correct application of the preceding principles first, without proper use of eyes, legs & attitude, the opportunity to generate natural power through correct technique is lost. (more…)

In the episode we continue going deeper into ichi gan, ni soku, san tan, shi riki as we take a deeper look into the third tan power: grit, determination, guts, tenacity, an indomitable spirit that won’t back down. Sometimes you just have to ask yourself the question, “How bad to you want it?” Technique alone won’t win you a fight or get you out of a tough situation. We’ve seen it so many times in competition, the best fighters don’t always win. It’s not just about your speed, power, technique or even how well you understand the strategy of the game. “It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog.” (more…)

In the episode we continue going deeper into ichi gan, ni soku, san tan, shi riki as we take a deeper look into the second element the legs (stance). The stance is the foundation upon which we build, it grounds us and is the basis for all movements and actions that carry us forwards. (more…)

In the episode we continue going deeper into ichi gan, ni soku, san tan, shi riki as we take a deeper look into the first element the eyes. The eyes are the most important of all the basics and the way we use them will effect everything else that follows. (more…)

We’re very excited to be introducing an incredibly deep topic in this episode, but to be honest we feel like we’re only just scratching the surface. It’s a bit of a technical topic, but it’s also a great metaphor for life. In the dojo, we always ask the question, “What is it that I need to focus on the most that will have the biggest impact on what I’m trying to do?” In going as deep as you can on these concepts in this podcast you’ll always find a good answer to this question. Hopefully it is more than enough to get you curious and keen to learn more. This episode is just a start, in upcoming episodes we will go deeper and explore each of the elements of this concept in greater detail. (more…)

How good would it be if you could get a 1% return on investment? Well… if you thinking 1% per annum like the banks give you, then it’s probably not so attractive. But what about if it’s 1% per week or even 1% per day, compounded? Sounds too good to be true, but it’s possible. Full disclosure: This episode is about personal growth, not finances. But if properly applied, this could also have a very positive effect on your finances if that’s your focus. We want to help you make a shift in mindset that allows you to create this kind of growth through consistent effort and a push towards continual improvement. Think about it, let’s say there’s something that you really like to do and you do it on a regular basis… like karate Every time you train, you aim to improve by just 1%. If you can do that, how quickly do you think you could be twice as good compared to your starting point? This is the basis of the rule of 1%, but it doesn’t stop there. (more…)

It’s great to get in the dojo and train, but it’s even better to do it with your family. Nothing says quality time with your family better than the opportunity to kick your child in the head or having them throw you to the ground and punch you. In all seriousness though, getting into the dojo as a family is a great way to spend quality time, but the benefits don’t stop there. Normal family hierarchies can be turned on their head. Especially when the kids start training first which is often the case. In this case, the parents are the juniors and the kids are their seniors. I love the way karate helps us look at things in a different way. (more…)

“There’s always somebody watching.” In everything that we do people see us. Whether we like to admit it or not, we are being judged. But even more importantly people are learning from us. In the dojo, juniors look up to their seniors, but it also works the other way too. Outside of the dojo, as parents our kids see everything we do and copy, our actions, attitudes & habits; both the good and the bad. The same is true of everyone we come into contact with on a daily basis. Over time, we pick up the habits of the people with whom we spend the most time. If there’s always someone watching… maybe we need to ask, “What’s the example I am trying to set?” (more…)

Welcome back to the Karate 4 Life Podcast. Episode 2 – What Makes A Good Student In this episode, we explore what it is that makes a good student. This is something that we believe is a key ingredient to accelerate your karate journey and also help you to excel in all areas of life. (more…)

Welcome to the Karate 4 Life Podcast, we’re very excited to be sharing the first episode today and we want to jump right in and get started. Episode 1 – The Importance Of Having A Goal Although the topic for today’s episode was inspired by a lesson with some of our karate kids, the topic is equally important for people of all ages. (more…)