about kyokushin karate
Introduction:
Kyokushin (prounounced "key-yoke/shin", meaning "the ultimate truth") is known throughout the Martial Arts world as the strongest karate, using traditional rigorous Japanese training strategies to develop strong individuals and top fighters. Kyokushin karate is an exciting way to develop superb physical fitness, self-defense skills, confidence, and self-discipline.
Benefits:
What can you expect to get out of Kyokushin Karate?
Confidence You will be amazed at the changes in your children and yourselves as you develop and evolve in the Martial Way, and challenge yourself in ways you have never before known.
Respect and Discipline Kyokushin karate is very traditional, and relies heavily upon the rules of courtesy, respect, and self-discipline, invaluable lessons for children and adults alike.
Fitness and Strength Above all, the first change you will notice in yourselves and your children will be in your fitness level. This ideal combination of cardiovascular and strength training provides a well-rounded and effective fitness program for individuals of all ages and skill levels.
Confidence You will be amazed at the changes in your children and yourselves as you develop and evolve in the Martial Way, and challenge yourself in ways you have never before known.
Respect and Discipline Kyokushin karate is very traditional, and relies heavily upon the rules of courtesy, respect, and self-discipline, invaluable lessons for children and adults alike.
Fitness and Strength Above all, the first change you will notice in yourselves and your children will be in your fitness level. This ideal combination of cardiovascular and strength training provides a well-rounded and effective fitness program for individuals of all ages and skill levels.
Camaraderie Kyokushin karate is notorious for fostering long-lasting, warm friendships. Many students return to karate year after year just to surround themselves with their Kyokushin family and to meet new people. Throughout the year there are many special events and tournaments held in Calgary, Alberta and in Canada, where students come together to train and socialize.
About Kyokushin Karate:
Built on centuries-old traditions of self-defense, Kyokushin karate was first introduced in Japan in 1953 by the late Grand Master Mas Oyama. After studying the Martial Arts for two decades training in many different forms (Korean, Chinese, and Japanese styles as well as boxing and self-defense tactics), he created Kyoksuhin karate from what he believed to be the essential elements of each, as well as his own practical methods to adapt ancient forms for 21st century practitioners. Kyokushin is fundamentally different from other karate forms in that it adheres to the most traditional training methods, protocols, and beliefs; yet avoids rigid guidelines, allowing its practitioners to grow and progress, and contribute to the evolution of the art. It is ideal for people seeking the challenges of competition, or a rewarding personal fitness program for individuals who accept the fundamental principle of "learning through hard training".
The International Karate Organization (IKO) Kyokushinkaikan is headed by Kancho Shokei Matsui, Mas Oyama's named successor and protégé. The Kyokushin Honbu (headquarters) is located in Tokyo, Japan. The Organization has grown to become one of the largest karate organizations in the world, with members in over 125 countries. Kancho Matsui has fought the infamous 100-Man Kumite (Series of 100 fights) and has won the World Karate Tournament and the All Japan Tournament twice. He has a unique combination of amazing power and unbeatable strength as well as the supreme grace and genuine humility of a true leader. Currently, Kancho Matsui travels to scores of Branches each year in countries around the globe to teach the Kyokushin Way.
Shihan Bobby Lowe was the most senior member of the Kyokushin Organization, and was Sosai Mas Oyama's protégé. He began training Kyokushin in 1952, when he first met Sosai Oyama on his World Tour, and went on to become Sosai's first live-in, or "Ushi-deshi" apprentice. In 1957, Shihan Lowe became the Director of the first international branch of Kyokushin in Honolulu Hawaii. At the time of Sosai's passing in 1994, Shihan Lowe was named Chairman of the International Committee.
Shihan Bobby Lowe was the most senior member of the Kyokushin Organization, and was Sosai Mas Oyama's protégé. He began training Kyokushin in 1952, when he first met Sosai Oyama on his World Tour, and went on to become Sosai's first live-in, or "Ushi-deshi" apprentice. In 1957, Shihan Lowe became the Director of the first international branch of Kyokushin in Honolulu Hawaii. At the time of Sosai's passing in 1994, Shihan Lowe was named Chairman of the International Committee.
Shihan Lowe traveled around the world conducting seminars, clinics and overseeing national, regional and international Championship tournaments and published, arguably one the most extensive and well-read martial arts books in the English language, "Mas Oyama's Karate ~As Practiced in Japan". Shihan Lowe was known around the world as "The Instructor's Instructor".
For over 25 years he maintained a strong friendship with the Canadian Organization, and its people, attending Canadian events for all of those 25 years.
In his words, "The splendor of Kyokushin Karate lies entirely in the word "OSU". This word has many literal translations, but for those practicing Kyokushin, it means the world. From this word, I learned to be patient, to endure and to continue until the end. My goal is to spread the spirit of Osu around the world.
Shihan Lowe passed away on September 14th 2011.
For over 25 years he maintained a strong friendship with the Canadian Organization, and its people, attending Canadian events for all of those 25 years.
In his words, "The splendor of Kyokushin Karate lies entirely in the word "OSU". This word has many literal translations, but for those practicing Kyokushin, it means the world. From this word, I learned to be patient, to endure and to continue until the end. My goal is to spread the spirit of Osu around the world.
Shihan Lowe passed away on September 14th 2011.
The Branch Chief of Western Canada is Shihan Stuart Corrigal of Richmond, BC. Shihan Stuart Corrigal began training Kyokushin Karate in 1968 with the Richmond Kyokushin Karate Club. Presently he is Branch Chief of the IKOK-Canada responsible for the Western region. As well as Head Instructor of the Richmond Kyokushin Karate Club, South Arm Dojo. Shihan Stuart has traveled extensively throughout the world training officiating and conducting IKO Officiating Seminars. He currently sits on the IKO Tournament Committee.
