Book Description

New 2nd edition with added chapters, diagrams, and photos. Now available in paperback and digital. This book was written exclusively for Amazon by IKA World Karate Champion and instructor, Rod Kuratomi. It fills the mental void that exists in modern martial arts training. It is said that Martial Arts training builds character and self-discipline but to the novice how these valuable character traits are developed is often a mystery.This book explains some of the mystique behind karate training and how martial arts training is more mental than physical. Also covered are modern renditions of what the combat mindset is and how to be a more aware and formidable opponent both on the street and in the ring. These tips are applicable to not only karate but to interpersonal relationships, the business world, modern warfare and self-defense. The book goes into great detail on how to be a better tournament competitor from the mental perspective.Much of today's modern training is dedicated only to the physical aspects, with emphasis only on fighting and technique. Without addressing the mental aspects, the system becomes only a method of fighting, and the "Art" is lost. The "Do" in karate-do refers to "The Way", the way being the road to spiritual enlightenment, utilizing karate as a vehicle to get there. Development of the karate spirit is perhaps the most important aspect of the art. This reference is a compilation of concepts and ideas which are dedicated to the spiritual aspects of Karate-Do and how utilize them to become a better competitor and enjoy better living through the way of karate. The following was learned first hand by experiencing everything written here over a period of more than 40 continuous years of martial arts training. Everything written here was learned over that time period first hand. It is the authors hope that by reading this book, you can accelerate your understanding in much less time.Rod Kuratomi is a 7th degree black belt - Kyoshi, in Gosoku Ryu karate under 10th degree black belt, Grandmaster Soke Takayuki Kubota of the International Karate Association. He is the technical director for the world-wide organization and is the successor to Soke Kubota in the Gosoku Ryu karate system. He also holds black belts in Kobudo (traditional weapons), Hojutsu (firearms), and Kubojitsu (Kubota Jujitsu).He is a retired clinical laboratory systems analyst by profession and resides in Southern California.