Am I too old to start studying karate at Takamine Karate Dojo?
Absolutely not! You are never too old to start learning new things. At Takamine Karate Dojo, we recognize that for this art to be true self-defense, it must work for everyone, regardless of age, size, gender, or physical strength.
“The best time to plant a tree was thirty years ago. The second best time to plant a tree is now.” – unknown source
If you have an interest in martial arts, now is the time to start! Takamine Karate Dojo is a great place to begin or continue your journey.
“I am approaching age 70 and look forward to going to this dojo every chance I get. I know that I am doing something positive to enhance my physical and mental health while learning about a unique ancient art form that is fascinating, practical and goes far beyond self-defense.” Sensei Bob S
What can I expect to learn by studying at Takamine Karate Dojo?
You can expect to learn a very old and traditional style of Okinawan martial arts that is truly unique, highly sophisticated and very effective. The style of martial art taught at the Takamine Karate Dojo can be traced back directly to two masters who were members of the Bushi, or warrior, class in Okinawa. They were from a time when this art was only passed from family member to family member.
Through learning self-defense you can expect to develop a better sense of self-awareness and develop a foundation for maintaining a healthy body and mind. You will need to be comfortable with challenging yourself physically, mentally and spiritually.
When a fellow student was asked why he studied this art, he responded as follows, “I study this art because it challenges my intellect and it hones my mind-body connection, it is rare and beautiful and it connects me to something far greater than my life as I experience it.” Shihan Pat T
What benefits does studying karate have to offer?
It is well documented that physical activity has many health benefits. Karate offers benefits like any other physical activity including improving flexibility, core strength and balance.
Beyond the physical benefits, the training involves both fine and gross motor movements done with precision and purpose in a 3 dimensional and 360- degree world. The training helps to enhance the relationship between mind and body and supports long term cognitive health.
This art is a basis for the strengthening of your body, mind and character.
What might my child learn from studying at The Takamine Karate Dojo?
The obvious answer to that question is self-defense, only to be used in a prudent manner. The not so obvious answer are the values taught and modeled at the Dojo while learning self- defense. Those values include humility, respect, perseverance, patience, self-control and maintaining a healthy mind and body.
All values that will serve an individual well throughout their life.
What makes the Takamine Karate Dojo unique?
Access to a world class Martial Artist who has devoted his life to continuously improving his art and who is willing to share his unique knowledge and skill with all students, no matter their seniority or rank.
A Dojo with a culture where all students are willing to help each other learn and grow.
A place to learn self-defense where the basic premise is that to be a true form of self-defense it must work for everyone regardless of size, age, strength, or gender.
A challenge to learn.
Extremely effective in practice.
Small class size.
Instruction that it is focused on an individual’s strengths, weaknesses, and personal development.
A Dojo where the art being taught is much more than blocking, kicking, and punching.
Martial Arts that focuses on those elements gives the advantage to the younger, stronger, bigger and faster practitioner.
This art is strategic, not unlike a chess match. It involves learning about human nature, human strengths and weaknesses common to all of us, body mechanics, and the use of proper distancing and positioning in relation to your opponent. These are the equalizers allowing everyone to defend themselves regardless of size, strength, age or gender.
I have studied martial arts before, is Takamine Karate Dojo the right place for me to continue training?
Whether you have dabbled in the martial arts or consider yourself an experienced practitioner, Takamine Karate Dojo may be the perfect place to continue your training. So, the answer is yes, provided you have an open mind to what is taught and have a willingness to continually learn and adapt.
All the senior students at Takamine Karate Dojo have trained in other styles prior to becoming a student of Hanshi Takamine. In fact, Hanshi Takamine himself, had tried several different styles of martial arts before beginning his journey with Taika Seiyu Oyata.
Kyusho Jitsu, Atemi Jitsu, Tuite Jitsu (vital point strikes, strike or touch, and grappling) and an in-depth study of both empty hand and weapons kata are all part of the training. If you have ever wondered what the movements of a kata mean, look no further. Hanshi Takamine can explain the purpose and application of every move in every kata taught.
Sensei Don R, a practitioner with over 40 years training, put it this way, “I am now studying martial arts at the PhD level.”
*Questions were compiled by and responded to by Sensei Bob S.