How to Learn Kyokushin Karate

Kyokushin is a hard, full-contact style of karate. Sometimes referred to as "knockdown karate," Kyokushin training places an emphasis on realism and practicality. However Kyokushin also places a high value on personal development and self-discipline. That said, it should be noted that a good portion of Kyokushin training consists of full-contact sparring without much in the way of protective gear. For that reason, training in Kyokushin is probably not for everyone. But if you are looking for a realistic and effective form of martial arts to train in, "knockdown karate" could be right for you.

Things You'll Need

  • Training materials such as books or DVDs
  • Loose-fitting clothes
  • Sparring partner
  • 10-by-10-foot area to train in
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a dojo that offers instruction in Kyokushin karate. The Internet or the phone book are good resources to use to locate one near you. If you cannot find or afford a Kyokushin dojo that suits you, you can also learn from books or DVDs. These can generally be ordered online or found at martial arts supply stores.

    • 2

      Learn the basic punches of Kyokushin karate. Make a fist by closing your pinkie finger first and then going down the line and closing each finger in sequence from there. Fold your thumb in behind your first two fingers. Punches in Kyokushin strike with such surfaces as the heel of the hand, the back of the fist and the first two knuckles of the fist. Deliver your punches either straight and direct or in a circular motion.

    • 3

      Learn Kyokushin kicks. Kyokushin kicks are direct and hard for the most part. There are some that come in from circular angles. Striking surfaces for Kyokushin kicks include the ball of the foot, the heel, the instep and the blade of the chin.

    • 4

      Learn and practice Kyokushin katas. There are a number of katas in Kyokushin karate and they are grouped together as the Northern Kata, the Southern Kata and the Ura Kata. Each of these groups of katas contains a dozen or so individual katas. The Northern and Southern katas are more basic, so begin with those.

    • 5

      Practice sparring with a partner. Kyokushin sparring is meant to be practiced with no protective gear. However it is probably best to gear up at first. As you learn more control and toughen up, you can remove pieces of gear along the way. Many schools allow hand and chin protection which is recommended.