Karate techniques are similar in most styles. It is the system in which they are taught, that identifies a style. As with all teaching systems, a syllabus is important.
Funakoshi Ryu has a structured, sequential training system. Incorporated into our system is the science of kinetics and biomechanics.
Kinetics is the study of the forces that produce, arrest or modify the motions of the body. Kinetics is the application of Newton’s first and third law of inertia to body dynamics.
In exercise and sport, biomechanics a sub-division of dynamics dealing with the study of the forces causing or tending to cause changes at which reactions proceed.
The stance
The central starting point or foundation of Funakoshi Ryu, is our ‘Kamae’ stance; this stance is more than a fighting position, it contains accurate head, body, arms, hands, leg and foot positioning. This stance is a study in itself. All training techniques start from from this position. This kamae is used in all our training systems: kihon, saiten kentai waza, shiho geri waza, kata and kumite.
Many styles have now copied this kamae and yet it is not in their kihon and kata. This stance is both an aggressive and defensive position. One could say this stance identifies Funakoshi Ryu.
Junior ranking
In 1966 Funakoshi Ryu introduced to the karate world our unique junior karate ranking system. All junior ranks wear a white stripe through their belts, and the awarding of junior black belts, also with a white stripe through the belt.
Funakoshi Ryu has excellent training systems, with great emphasis placed on the detail and perfection, of all kion techniques.
Our unique advanced black belt training syllabus caters for the advancement of karateka through the higher dan rankings.
Ongoing change
Funakoshi Ryu is an on-going style, always looking to improve and advance with new systems and techniques. The method used to train an athlete 50 years ago, cannot be compared to the methods taught today.
Bushido
Funakoshi Kobudo International teaches weapon training to students wishing to practice the disciplines of Bushido weaponry. Edwin Ward Dai Hanshi has studied a variety of weapons and has developed systems of teaching these weapons, unique to Funakoshi Karate International students.
Funakoshi Karate International
Master Gichin Funakoshi, considered the founder of modern day karate, wrote in his teachings “Karate-Do, My Life” and “Kyohan Karate-Do”, many wonderful things. He explained that karate must constantly be improved, modified and changed in order to retain its integrity, vigour and life.
Edwin James Ward started his martial arts career in South Africa in 1958. He studied under many of the top martial arts masters in various styles and disciplines in Japan. Edwin favoured the Shotokan style of karate, but recognised the need for future development. In 1966 Edwin started the development of his own karate style and in honour of Gichin Funakoshi named the style Funakoshi Ryu.
Although many advancements have been made in the history of Funakoshi Ryu style, we still adhere to the traditional Bushido ethics. The Funakoshi Ryu style of karate has proved itself in local and international tournaments with excellent results. Funakoshi Karate International is practised in many countries around the world.
Funakoshi Karate International Australia (FKIA) was first established in Australia by Sensei Frank McKenzie in January 1996. The style is now a recognised member of the Australian Karate Federation (AKF), and through the AKF the World Karate Federation (WKF).
Funakoshi Karate Australia has the following objectives:
- Retain the traditional Funakoshi Karate ethics of structured discipline, basics, kata and kumite
- Enjoy increased recognition, respect and growth as a martial arts leader in Victoria, expanding in time further afield
- Recognise and encourage individual goals, whether competitive, for self-improvement, martial arts weapons, non-competitive, self-defense, non-contact karate etc
- Interact with instructors and students from other local, regional, national and international martial arts styles
- ‘Import’ international guest instructors from within the Funakoshi style and other styles, and embrace the positive ideas and concepts from other styles
- Provide opportunities for continued training and skills development (coaching, refereeing, first aid) for our members
