Karate
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What is Karate
Karate is a Japanese Martial Art that developed on the island of Okinawa from the 16th century onwards. It mixed the indigenous system of Te with Chinese Kung Fu. The blend of systems incorporates blocking (uki waza), striking (uchi waza), punching (zuki waza), kicking (geri waza) and throwing/locking (Naga waza) techniques. The system was called Karate, meaning "China Hand" but this evolved in time to mean "Empty Hand", that is, empty of weapon and intent.
The styles
There are many different schools of Karate, however, there are only four main styles practised in Japan that are recognised as true Karate and only one of these styles is recognised by the Butokai (Japan's Martial Arts Council) as a Martial Art. This is the style of Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate which is practised at Winchester.
The Instructor
Simon Budden, 5th Dan IOGKF, has taught at Winchester as its Karate instructor for over ten years. He is a senior instructor in I.O.G.K.F, with over forty years martial arts experience, including a career as a former international competitor, as a member of the England All Styles squad.
The Training
Karate classes are held twice a week in the School Dojo (martial arts training hall), and cover all the elements of Goju Ryu Karate, including the traditional equipment training rarely practised by other systems.
Courses are held regularly with our Chief Instructor, Sensei George Andrews, 7th Dan and boys are entitled to train at World and European events held by our governing body the I.O.G.K.F. where students can train with the World Chief Instructor, Morio Higaonna Sensei, 10th Dan.
Friendly competitions are held with Millfield, Bedales and Eton for those who wish to try their hand at competition.
The Benefits
Regular training in Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate, within our enjoyable and stimulating environment, will make its practitioners not only very fit but also increase their flexibility and coordination, develop important skills to aid in self-protection should the need arise, as well as helping self confidence and self awareness.