Shari Rodgers Karate was developed in the 19th century from Chinese and Japanese fighting techniques, and it has become the dominant self-defense and martial arts technique for over 100 million people worldwide. Not only does karate teach its practitioners valuable skills in self-defense, it also focuses on self-discipline, body-spirit alignment and respect. This makes karate…
Shari Rodgers Kyoshi means “teacher” or “master” and recently the Quail Creek Karate group had the honor to learn from Michael Johnson Sensei who is a Hachidan (eighth dan) with over 50 years of karate experience. Johnson Sensei was introduced to karate while in the military and, when discharged, he began formal training under Hidetaka Nishiyama Sensei.…
Shari Rodgers On May 24, the Karate Group at Quail Creek had an amazing Karate seminar with Shihan Kousaku Yokota, 69 years of budo experience, founder of Asai Shotokan Association International (ASAI), Asai-ryu Shotokan bujutsu karate, and author of six books! The style of karate taught and practiced by the Quail Creek group is Asai…
Shari Rodgers Karate’s origins can be traced back hundreds of years to Okinawa, an island once a kingdom in its own right. This island nestled in the Ryukyu archipelago of present-day Japan was influenced by Chinese martial arts and indigenous fighting styles. Karate evolved over centuries, integrating techniques and philosophies across Asia, bringing a unique…
Shari Rodgers Many people turn to karate for physical fitness, but its mental health benefits are more powerful! Karate goes beyond physical practice; it’s a form of moving meditation. Each movement requires mental clarity and a deep awareness of the body and breath. This mindfulness is essential because it helps us stay present and focused.…
Shari Rodgers It might just become your passion. Passion is a powerful force in our lives. Engaging in activities we love can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. Passion fuels our motivation and creativity. It gives us something to strive for and can help us overcome challenges. When we immerse ourselves in martial arts, we…
Shari Rodgers Preparing for your karate belt test can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Whether you’re testing for your first belt or higher rank, proper preparation is key to success. The martial art of karate is rich in history and tradition. Karate utilizes a unique belt and rank system to signify a practitioner’s level…
Shari Rodgers The Quail Creek karate group is strong! As the year came to a close, there is so much the karate group is thankful for, and so much was accomplished by our members! A big thank you to the Anza gym for their support of karate and its members. The Beginning Karate, or Movement,…
Shari Rodgers This class is called Beginning Karate, but what we are truly practicing is moving mindfulness. Rather than focusing on performance or memorizing long sequences, we approach karate as a way to awaken awareness through movement. The mind and body develop together, and a new way of moving emerges. The instructor’s training comes through…
Shari Rodgers How does someone go from the humble white belt to the coveted black belt and beyond? Let’s look at the mental and physical challenges that those doing karate face on their journey. Insights into dedication and discipline are required to master karate. Belt testing, promotion standards, and the true meaning of achieving a…