The heart of traditional karate is found within the kata. Naihanchi (Tekki) Kata is one of the original training forms and various versions of it can be found today in karate styles derived from the old Shuri-Te lineage on Okinawa. It is a vital part of karate's heritage handed down from the pioneering masters of our past. In this thought-provoking publication, Chris Denwood presents his own approach to traditional karate through Naihanchi Kata, featuring a step by step guide and an avid exploration of its true depth. Using five layers of analysis, Chris examines in detail how the movements of Naihanchi Kata represent a series of lessons, based on holistic themes and principles that when applied, show why this seemingly superficial kata has been revered by serious practitioners for generations. Volume one introduces the Kata, focusses on developing a solid foundation and investigates a number of the most important lessons on structure and dynamics to be found within the movements of the form.

In this thought-provoking publication, Chris Denwood presents his approach to traditional karate through the choreography of one of its most important classical forms. Heavily illustrated and rich in content, volume two of this book series focuses on the exploration of Naihanchi (Tekki) Kata for civilian self-protection. Chapters detail contextual aims and subsequent considerations, the generation of a core game-plan, plus associated application framework. The methodology of the kata is presented as a logical and flowing lesson plan, integrating key conceptual strategies and essential tactics. This instalment also covers a number of supporting methods by which to deeply analyse classical karate kata in order to get the most from your pragmatic study.

Reveals the origins and purpose of the art of shotokan. This book describes how karate was invented by the world's only unarmed bodyguards to protect the world's only unarmed king, the king of Okinawa, against Americans.

The book "My Art and Skill of Karate" presents the technical knowledge and original accounts imparted by famed Okinawa karate master Motobu Chōki (1870-1944). This translation was created in close cooperation with the author's grandson, Motobu Naoki sensei. It also includes a congratulatory address by the author's son, Motobu Chōsei sensei, the current head of the school. Moreover, this year marks the 150th anniversary of Motobu Chōki's birth. In other words, three generations of the Motobu family were involved in this new translation, connecting the history and tradition of karate from the 19th to 21th century.In addition to accounts about old-time karate masters in Okinawa, the work features thirty-four photos of Motobu performing Naihanchi Shodan, including written descriptions. Moreover, it includes twenty kumite with pictures and descriptions as well as five pictures of how to use the makiwara.What makes it even more unique is that the existence of the book was unknown until the 1980s, when the wife of a deceased student sent the book to Motobu Chōki's son, Chōsei. Until today this edition remains the only known original edition in existence, and it provided the basis for this original translation. This work has to be considered one of the most important sources to assess and interpret karate.

Why train in kata? What benefits can it bring? How can we turn something so static into a dynamic part of our regular training? What role should solo training play in a repertoire? "John has done a brilliant job of methodically and logically explaining his approach to bunkai! Conclusions and workings are clearly articulated in a work that is sure to be hugely popular and influential" Iain Abernethy "An excellent synthesis of the last 30 years of practical karate research." Bill Burgar "Karate has become a generic label, so I think it is important that contemporary practitioners are contextually conscious toward their individual training goals, to ensure they are travelling along the right path. John has created this excellent, thoroughly researched, educational and thought-provoking book that serves to represent an in-depth study of karate for civilian self-protection. I highly recommend it to anyone who wishes to explore karate under the surface." Chris Denwood "We need more books like this: high value, precisely written, innovative and thought provoking. "Karate Beyond Kata" provides martial artists with a step-by-step diagnostic snd self-reflective algorithm providing practitioners with the door to evolve and adapt naturally within their own training syllabus and current mindset. Get it. I did!" Chris Hanson "John intelligently explores and dives deep into vital and at times controversial topics which are essential to karate's effectiveness and growth as a martial arts system. A must read for those who like to progress their understanding and breadth of karate knowledge." Leigh Simms

Richard `Biggie' Kim, Lefty Nakayama, Clarence Lee, Richard Lee, and Herbert Lee taught me all the katas contained in this book. These katas are very rare and only a few people around the world practice them. That is the reason why I decided to document and share these kata. I felt an obligation to not allow these beautiful and effective forms to be lost to history. In a sense, this book is a tribute to Richard `Biggie' Kim, one of the most knowledgeable martial artists the world has ever known. Please be aware that this book is meant for high level traditional martial artists and for those who already are familiar with these katas.

British karate teacher Chris Denwood presents a collection of his articles and short philosophical thoughts on the analysis of traditional karate for civilian self-protection and personal growth. Heavily illustrated with over 230 pictures, covered in this book are thought-provoking sections on history, kata bunkai (analysis), training methods, theoretical study, pragmatic application, overarching concepts, as well as some of the author's personal insights, experiences and stories.