Kyokushin Karate Training

Kyokushin karate is a full-contact fighting system founded in 1964 by Masutatsu "Mas" Oyama, a legendary martial artist known for his toughness and power. According to the Martial Arts Database, kyokushin "is rooted in a philosophy of self-improvement, discipline and hard training." Oyama instilled these traits into his followers and created a style of karate that incorporates some elements of the linear style of shotokan karate and many more of the circular elements of goju-ryu karate. It also uses techniques picked up from Thai kickboxing. Kyokushin's emphasis on realistic sparring has contributed to its reputation as a hard, effective martial art.

The Concept of Osu

The rigorous training associated with kyokushin karate requires physical and mental toughness, patience, dedication, determination and perseverance. These character traits are reflected in a word closely associated with this martial art: "osu." Osu is a contraction of two Japanese words: "oshi," meaning "push," and "shinobu," which means "to endure." In kyokushin, osu is heard often and in many different circumstances. It is used, for example, as a greeting, to acknowledge instruction, to recognize accomplishment and for encouragement. As United States Kyokushin Karate explains on its website, osu "means patience, determination and perseverance. Every time we say 'Osu,' we remind ourselves of this."

Multifaceted Training

Oyama studied the powerful, linear style of shotokan karate early in his life; later in life, he studied fighting styles that used more circular Chinese techniques. These influences are reflected in kyokushin training, in which students start with linear shotokan-like drills but study more goju-ryu-like techniques as they progress. Students are promoted after they pass tests that include challenging calisthenics and aerobic exercises, demonstrations of basic blocking, punching and kicking techniques, self-defense applications, kata and sparing. The students also may be required to demonstrate their skills of tameshiwari, the breaking of boards or bricks.

Kata

A kata is a choreographed series of movements incorporating fighting techniques directed at imaginary opponents. This is practiced to improve technique, develop memory and condition the body. Kyokushin kata are divided into northern kata, southern kata and ura kata. Many northern kata are derived from shotokan karate but include some that are unique to kyokushin. Many southern kata are derived from goju-ryu karate but also include some unique to kyokushin. Ura, or reverse, kata, were developed by Oyama to improve balance and provide additional skills for fighting opponents attacking from different directions.

Sparring

Sparring, or kumite, in kyokushin can be a full-contact exercise. To prevent serious, incapacitating injuries, punches and elbow strikes to the head, neck and throat are barred. Kicks to the head, however, are allowed, as they are more difficult to execute successfully. Kyukushin fighters are allowed to kick the inner and outer legs of opponents, punch the upper body and strike with the knee. When a student is training, the goal is to not to harm an opponent but to practice fighting techniques with good form. In some tournaments, however, knockdown rules apply, and the goal is to knock an opponent to the ground.