THE DOJO

The training procedure in the Isshinryu Karate Dojo is militaristic. The aspiration of the dedicated student is to achieve Bu-toku, or military virtue.

As in all martial arts, the karate player runs the risk of injury. For the tyro, sprained toes and bruised knuckles are the most common ailments. But, eventually, through diligent practice and training, his fists become harder and his body stronger. One of the major discomforts the fledgling karateman must overcome is the agony of the formal Japanese position, a ritual which opens and closes each formal training period. In the beginning American students find the muscular demands of this position almost unbearable. But it is a symbol of pride at Tacoma’s Isshinryu Karate Dojo to be able to maintain this stance in a completely relaxed manner.

As the student develops his fighting skills, a definite personality change occurs. He becomes more aggressive, more confident. He takes pride in his speed, coordination and strength. Posture, agility, breathing and reflexes all improve markedly. His chests expand and fat is replaced with firm, well-toned muscle. His endurance level rises, and his sensitivity to pain diminishes.

The Isshinryu Karate Dojo is, above all, a place in which to grow both as a person and as a Karate-ka. Obese and clumsy people lose weight and acquire grace. Hostile paranoiacs lose their hatred. The weak become strong, the time learn competitiveness. Posture and breathing are perfected. Torpid reflexes become lightening quick.

Isshinryu Karate Dojo, however, is not a gymnasium or a club. It is a cherished place of learning. And always it poses a challenge to the students as they develop both in mind and body.

The Isshinryu Karate Dojo is kept immaculately clean. It is pleasing both aesthetically and athletically. The spotless condition of the Isshinryu Karate Dojo and the attitude of its sensei and students reflect the high calibre of work done there.

It is an old but true adage that fine Karate belongs in a fine Dojo. In the venerable tradition of Okinawan simplicity, the Isshinryu Dojo in Tacoma is speciously beautiful and faultlessly maintained.

It strives always to reflect the proud spirit of a proud art.

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