Japanese terminology

fundamentals

Basic techniques practised to build reliable movement, posture and timing.

form

A structured sequence of techniques used to preserve principles, rhythm and tactical ideas.

sparring

Partner practice, from prearranged drills to freer exchange depending on level and school.

training place

The place where the way is studied; not just a gym, but a disciplined learning space.

teacher

A teacher or instructor; literally someone born before, with experience to transmit.

bow/respect

A gesture of respect that frames practice, etiquette and attention.

quiet meditation

A short silent moment used to settle attention before or after practice.

body management

Body movement used to change line, distance and angle instead of meeting force directly.

to flow/let pass

A principle often associated with receiving and redirecting force rather than blocking rigidly.

to evade/deflect

To avoid or deflect an attack with timing and body positioning.

to ride

To enter into the opponent’s movement and take advantage of their timing.

distance

The functional distance and timing between practitioners.

remaining mind

Continued awareness after a technique or exchange.

focused spirit

A coordinated expression of breath, intent and body action.

performance line

The floor pattern or movement line followed in a kata.

way of the empty hand

The martial way of karate: technical practice joined to etiquette, discipline and character.

training uniform

The uniform worn for karate practice; it keeps training simple, respectful and consistent.

belt

The belt worn with the gi; it also indicates the practitioner’s grade in many schools.

formal kneeling

A formal kneeling posture often used for bowing, listening or short meditation.

ready

A command to prepare: stand ready, focused and available for the next instruction.

begin

The command to start an exercise, kata, drill or exchange.

stop

The command to stop immediately and return attention to the instructor or partner.

turn around

A command to turn, usually used when changing direction during line work.

right

Right side or right direction, used to clarify stance, guard or technique.

left

Left side or left direction, used to clarify stance, guard or technique.

upper level

The upper target area, generally head or face level.

middle level

The middle target area, generally torso level.

lower level

The lower target area, generally below the waist.

guard/posture

A ready posture or guard that organizes distance, balance and intention.

block/receive

Receiving or blocking actions used to protect, redirect and create opportunity.

punch/thrust

Punching or thrusting techniques, with pronunciation often changing to zuki in combinations.

kick

Kicking techniques, with pronunciation often changing to keri in combinations.

stance

A stance or way of standing that supports balance, movement and technique.

decisive focus

The focused completion of a technique through timing, posture, breath and intent.

application analysis

The study of how movements from kata can be understood and applied.

senior student

A more experienced student who helps transmit dojo etiquette and example.

junior student

A less experienced student in relation to a senpai.

student grade

A pre-black-belt grade, usually progressing downward toward first kyū.

black-belt grade

A black-belt grade, usually progressing upward from first dan.