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Karate - Part 2
Boost your wellbeing and confidence with this ancient martial art.
Check out Part 1 of this article!
Karate teaches self discipline, self control and confidence. It awakens students to the power of the mind and the power of positive thinking. It is not a case of a person telling you that it works- you see it in practice over the years and you come to rely on your own motivation and positive and determined thinking. Karate readies you for any situation in life by enhancing a sense of calm within you and making you more capable of facing pressure and unexpected issues.
To progress up the ranks and get higher belts one learns a 'Kata' (which essentially is a sequence of karate moves), along with basic moves and defence techniques which are performed in front of an instructor who decides if you pass or fail. As well as traditional karate moves, you also learn how to fight freestyle in karate. This is sparring against partners in a controlled environment- on mats with protective gear and a referee ensuring contact is kept light! This is the element of karate which is most prominent in competition although 'katas' feature as an event.
Competitions in themselves were motivation for me to continue training. In a fight at a tournament the adrenaline rush I experience is far better than any chemical high in the world (this is an assumption of course as I haven’t tried every chemical high, but I do imagine it is-and it’s guilt free!). And when you reach the point where you can actually score with ease and you find yourself winning tournaments the feeling of achievement and pride is astounding! However, nothing matches the feeling of being awarded a black belt. I remember smiling for weeks! All that beaming really hurt my cheeks but it was excellent all the same. It’s an achievement to be proud of that is recognised worldwide. I think it was that moment that my transition into the person I am today was officially made and solidified.
It is reassuring to know that you can defend yourself and the ones you care about if it is necessary. This in itself allows you to face the world more confidently. Knowing that you’re in complete control of your own body has the same effect; essentially once you have done that everything just falls into place.
I know it’s not to everyone’s tastes, but it’s important to realise that everyone is capable of participating in it. There are different types of fighters and training- some will never compete in competition or face an opponent at all and will simply learn and perfect the moves. Others will work solely on self-defence, or they may wish to do a variety of all the elements of karate, or possibly focus only on free style for competitions. If you’re not flexible now- that can be changed through practice and stretches and many people who are stiff find they are still excellent punchers or good with low kicks. Some people will never attack but become skilled at defending or vice versa.
No matter who you are karate can be personalised to suit your ability. So if you have interest, you have potential. That said, if you are interested in learning a martial art I suggest you just do it! Go for it- why not? Find a local class and join! If it’s not for you, at least you tried, and with all its benefits I think it’s worth giving a chance- don’t you?
By: Zara
Find out more by visiting the Irish Martial Arts Commission.
