Black Belt Karate. Chris Thompson

is the art of unarmed combat using parts of the body as weapons: hands, feet, elbows, knees and even the head. It has also become an exciting sport providing a fascinating and exhilarating challenge for anyone taking it up, regardless of age or sex. Through systematic and prolonged training, mental as well as physical, over many years, one can become proficient in the art.

      There are many reasons why people are attracted to karate. It still holds an air of mystery, and to be a ‘black belt’ is a title that appeals to many. To be able to defend oneself in any situation, without requiring weapons other than those one was born with, is inspirational. Obviously, most people who have never taken up the art of karate will have heard of its benefits, such as gaining a greater fitness and confidence. Yet there is much, much more that karate has to offer. An inner peace can be developed as well as a feeling of well-being. I believe karate makes one a better person. I do hope you find, or have found, a sensei (teacher) who will guide you the right way on your long and enjoyable road of training in karate-do.

      This book is aimed at students who have already started the long path in the study of karate. The techniques shown are not for beginners in the art, but for the intermediate student and black belts – therefore, a certain degree of skill must have been obtained before embarking on the techniques shown here.

      The attacker on the right strikes to his opponent’s face with a left yonhon nukite jodan (four-finger spear hand at head height).

      To be capable of looking after oneself, all aspects of self-defence must be practiced regularly, not just kicking, striking and punching. Karate-do encapsulates all of this and the movements must be repeated as often as possible, whether you are training on your own, or with a partner. The aim of all karate practice is to make techniques instinctive, delivered without any hesitation whatsoever.

      Black Belt Karate gives a brief history of how the karate we are now studying came into being and how it has developed from the latter part of the last century right up to the modern day. The book also describes how sport competition karate is now the driving force behind many karate schools, which makes it very attractive to younger practitioners. The lack of emphasis in many schools on traditional karate values and ethos has led to a fall in the number of adult students, but this book is suitable for all ages and aims to further your karate education and all-round development.

      A reinforced block using the right forearm.

      Migi morote uke delivered in right back stance, kokutsu dachi.