Physical development in Karate
General Health
If mental development is the real end of karate, the beginning is undoubtedly physical
development. A sound body is always the basis of a sound mind.
But can
Karate training is particularly adaptable for persons of either sex or any age. The training,
although hard, is never excessive. You need no apparatus, no partner, but only enough space in
which to exercise. Later, of course, when you are ready to begin sparring, you will need a
partner. By this time your health should be so improved that you will all be but unrecognizable!
In fact, the benefits are too numerous to be dealt with fully here. No wonder so many
‘karate-ka’ live to a great age!
Side-kicks stimulate the thyroid glands, ensuring a normal emission of hormones. Certain
postures, particularly the ‘iron horse’ posture, strengthen the abdominal and hip muscles and also
tone the sexual nerves which stem from the pelvic region. Breath control accompanies every
movement improving the flexibility of sensory nerves controlling tenacity and contractile forces.
Most important of all, perhaps, is the alternative that karate offers to the nervous prostration
brought about by an excess of self-control which is such a hazard of civilization. Karate offers
nervous balance and both mental and physical fulfillment.
anyone have a sound body? With a few obvious exceptions, the answer is yes.