Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Budo Ryu
Karate Do
Student
Manual
Compiled by the instructors of Budo Ryu - 2004
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Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
E:\Budo_Ryu\Manual\Manual All.doc
Updated 28 January 2001
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 3
The Goals of Budo Ryu ................................................................................................ 3
Self Protection vs. Self Perfection ............................................................................ 4
Kindness of spirit ........................................................................................................... 4
The road ahead ............................................................................................................... 5
Training Principles .............................................................................................................. 9
Dual Road - Physical and mental/spiritual .............................................................. 9
The Mental Principles ...................................................................................................... 20
Budo weapons .............................................................................................................. 29
Belt Rank and Advancement Testing ..................................................................... 45
Kyu Requirements ....................................................................................................... 46
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Yellow Belt ................................................................... 47
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Yellow one stripe ......................................................... 48
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Yellow two stripes ........................................................ 49
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Green Belt .................................................................... 50
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Green one stripe .......................................................... 51
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS- Green two stripes ........................................................ 52
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS BROWN ....................................................................... 53
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Brown - one stripe ............................................................. 54
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Brown - two stripes ..................................................... 55
Terminology Dictionary .......................................................................................................... 56
Recommended Reading for further study ....................................................................... 62
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Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Introduction
What is Budo Ryu
Budo Ryu is a self-defense oriented style of Martial Arts derived from Japanese traditional arts
and incorporating techniques from many martial disciplines. While rooted in traditional forms,
Budo Ryu is an evolving style which grows and changes to
perfect it’s techniques. Practicality is central to our style
and techniques which have limited application or require
special physical skills are not part of the core of Budo Ryu
techniques.
The Goals of Budo Ryu
Budo Ryu was founded to provide students practical self
defense techniques with a “low investment - high yield”
philosophy. Low Investment means that techniques which
are simple to learn and apply are taught first and these
techniques show immediate results. The idea that a
student can learn effective self defense strategies in just a
few classes is central to the teachings of Budo Ryu. As
the student progresses, more complicated techniques are
introduced, but the goal is to provide effective self defense
first before moving ahead to techniques which may take
years to perfect.
Because of this philosophy, these techniques do not
require radical physical changes in the student. How can a
self defense technique which requires extreme flexibility be
effectively learned in a few weeks when obtaining the
flexibility to execute it properly may take years ? The core
techniques of Budo Ryu can be applied by the average
student right away.
Budo Ryu is also called a “No Way Way”. A style
unbounded by adherence to conventions. This means that
while specific techniques are taught in a strict form to be
performed a very specific way, this is intended for the
beginner. For new students, these rules are necessary to
provide a framework from which to expand and eventually
break free of the rules of “standard” karate. Many great
teachers over the centuries have rejected strict formalism
in styles because they become static - “concretized” - over
time and lose their vitality. Jeet Kun Do, Bruce Lee’s famous martial style, was such a method as
were the sword techniques of the greatest Japanese swordsman of all time, Miyamoto Musashi.
Musashi directly rejects the various schools of his day saying that once having learned the basic
postures and cutting techniques through repeated practice, the student will discover methods
which extend and then break the confines of the limitations of form.
Budo Ryu grew from these same motivations. As times change, so must self defense tactics.
Tactics developed to stop an unarmed attacker may remain a constant, but more and more
attacks with more dangerous weapons by people who may be numbed by the effects of drugs or
alcohol, call for new strategies. Who knows what might self-defense challenges we may face 50
years from now. A static style will never learn to deal with attacks which are evolving. Budo Ryu’s
founder also realized the power of a flexible form and when he later read the writings of Musashi,
his vision of an evolving style was crystallized.
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Self Protection vs. Self Perfection
In ancient times the primary function of any martial art was self protection. The “martial” aspect
was emphasized and the “art” was secondary. The Japanese word for “Martial Art” is BuJutsu.
“Bu” being “military or martial”, “justu” becoming translated as “art”. The character for “Bu”
consists of the radicals “to stop” ( ) and “spear” ( ), the ancient implication being a military man’s
foremost duty was of protection and defense. The character for Jutsu does not mean “art” as we
commonly think of it. It means “useful” or “technique”. So the original meaning of BuJutsu was a
“practically useful martial form”. During Japans 300 years of civil war which ended in the 1600’s,
the various Ryu or “schools” developed their particular form of BuJutsu to a high degree. Self
Protection was the goal, not just of the self, but of the clan, the family and one’s sovereign lord.
Over time, as civil unrest ceased and armed conflict became more rare, the energies of many
Ryu became completely focused on developing the character of those practicing the martial arts.
The practical combat aspect was slowly suppressed. As a result, the various Ryu found
themselves teaching non-combative techniques focusing on the individual’s self-perfection.
These styles were no longer “Jutsu” forms, they became “Do” forms. “Do” means “way” or “path”,
the implication is a path to self-improvement, enlightenment or education. It does not mean selfprotection.
Today there are many Ryu which focus on the “Do” aspect - Kendo - Japanese Fencing, KarateDo, Judo - Wrestling, Iaido - the art of drawing the sword, etc. These forms are self-perfection
forms which teach techniques whose roots are in the Jutsu traditions but which have became
more stylized and less useful in combat situations. In many schools the line between Do and
Justu forms is blurred and they are often taught side by side without distinction. “Do” forms have
great power to mold character, teach discipline and tradition. What is lacking is the practicality of
the older forms.
Budo Ryu’s core principle is that of the ancient “Jutsu” forms - practical self-defense. Ultimately
though, a trained fighter without self-discipline is like a loaded gun with no safety. All martial arts,
whether they be hand-to-hand or weapons oriented require more than merely memorizing physical
techniques.
Self Discipline
Discipline is the cornerstone of the martial spirit and the single most important lesson to be
gained from your training. Without it, instructors have no way of knowing if what they are teaching
will be used for aggression or for self-defense. In class and out, the student must remember the
responsibility which comes with the power behind their techniques. Reinforced in class through
drill and absolute obedience to instructors and senior students, the discipline of the student will be
seen in their every day lives in the actions and words.
Kindness of spirit
With the knowledge of the power of the students training and the discipline which tempers it
comes and natural progression to a kind and generous spirit. Courtesy, honesty and integrity
show through.
Respect for others
Discipline in the training hall inevitably flows out into the students everyday life. Respect for
others is central and this attitude, perfected in class through rigorous training, permeates the
students daily life both in an out of class.
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The road ahead
How long will it take to get to the “end” of your journey ? Many years ago, a young student
approached a Karate master and asked the same question - “How long will it take to reach Black
Belt ?”. The Master replied “6 years”. “What if I train twice as hard?” The master replied - “10
years”. “What if I train everyday with all my effort ?” Again the master replied - “12 years”. The
puzzled student asked ‘ Master, I don’t understand. If I train harder than anyone else, if I train
everyday with all my energy, why will it take me 12 years to earn my black belt.” The master
smiled and said, “With one eye on your goal, you will have only one eye to find the way.”
And so it will go with your training. You will learn the journey has no end and that the road you will
travel - the training in class - is the reward. Keep both eyes on the training at hand and the
improvement we all seek will find it’s way to us.
Brief History of Karate
Earliest forms
Martial disciplines are as ancient as mankind. Certainly before recorded history rudimentary
systems of martial combat were practiced. These forms have been lost in time, but modern
Karate’s roots extend thousands of years into the past.
The earliest evidence of martial forms comes from clay tablets carved in Greece around 300 BC.
These crude fighting forms, called “Pankration”, were practiced by Alexander the Great’s soldiers
and carried throughout the near east during Alexander’s conquests. In India, Pankration was
influenced by the Indian warrior class whose Vajramushti disciplines were taught to all of the
caste. At the time, the nobility were educated in martial disciplines and a young Buddhist monk
named Bodhidahrma studied the new forms. His life is a story which has long ago been
transformed by myth and legend. Much of what is known has been passed down by oral tradition
and therefore many “facts” of his life may be fiction. But to the martial arts, Bodhidharhma’s life
story is central.
Bodhidharhma left India sometime during the 6th Century and traveled to Liang Province, China
where he was greeted by Emperor Wu. Emperor Wu was greatly interested in Bodhidharma’s
new religion and his martial background. But Wu found the teachings difficult to understand and
the long hours of silent meditation were too much for him to bear. He banished Bodhidharhma
from Liang. But Bodhidharhma was certain his philosophy that only “Jiriki” - self effort through
protracted meditation and self discipline - would lead one to true enlightenment. Bodhidharhma
devised exercises to improve the physical nature so that his students could endure the long
meditation sessions. To this day meditation remains a central precept of Mahayana1 Buddhism.
The exercises and the Buddhist philosophy were contained in two books, the I-Chin-Ching and
the Hsiensui-Ching. These exercises were called the Shin Pa Lo Han Sho or the 18 Hands of Lo
Han. Very likely they were developed using Bodhidarhma’s Vashramushti training as a basis. In
modern times, Hun-Gar Kung Fu schools teach a variation of this early form.
Mahayana Buddhism - literally “Great Vehicle” Buddhism and Hinayana - Little Vehicle Buddhism are
the two primary sects of modern day Buddhism. The “vehicle” in these cases being equated with a Ferry
Boat. The boat being that which helps you to cross the divide to enlightenment. A apt anology since once
across the vehicle is to be discarded and the practicioner free to move about without the constraints of the
dogma which defined and informed his initial passage. Much like a structured Kata form which later allows
a more unstructured approach to martial arts training.
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To build endurance and strength, the exercises were done slowly and resembled modern Kata2.
Slow movements are a characteristic of modern T’ai Chi, a Chinese martial form which focuses
on inner harmony.
As the students mastered the slow forms, they increased their speed.
Chinese Kempo (boxing) developed around the same time and these forms were combined with
Bodhidarhma’s regimen to form Shaolin Kempo. Later, these forms were known as Shaolin
Ch’uan Fa (Kung Fu). Forbidden to carry weapons of any kind, the Shaolin monks were well
known for their prowess in unarmed combat using Shaolin Ch’uan Fa.
Sometime after Bodhidarhma’s death, a Ch’uan Fa master named Ch’ueh Yuan Shang-Jen
combined the 18 hands of Lo Han with his own forms. Traveling to Shensi province Shang-jen
met another Ch’uan Fa master name Li. Together they developed 170 movements and named
the best of these “Snake”, Dragon, Crane and tiger. Shaolin Ch’uan Fa became the first school of
unarmed fighting known as the external school.
From this beginning, the arts found their way to many Asian and southeast Asian countries. In
each, the forms found a unique expression, combining with locally developed styles to form new
schools. During this period of time from around 600 AD to the late 1300’s, the development of
martial forms was wide spread. In 1372, the origins of modern Karate found their way to the
Ryukyu Islands of Okinawa. The ancient Ch’uan Fa forms landed there and when combined with
the native Okinawan forms, was called Tode. Tode Ch’uan Fa was modified through the years
until the early 1600’s.
After 300 years of civil war, Japan came under one ruler - the Tokugawa family whose leader
Tokugawa Ieyasu 3was named “Shogun” (military ruler) of all Japan. To placate the defeated
Satsuma clan , the Shogun granted permission for the Satsuma to subjugate the Ryukyu Islands
of Okinawa. This attack in 1609 ended Okinawan independence. To ensure against civil
uprisings, Shimazu Iehisa issued a ban on all weapons and a house to house search was ordered
to collect them. The Okinawans, stripped of their only means of self defense turned to their
unarmed combat forms. Local Ch’uan Fa and Tode schools joined forces in 1629 and the Ryu’s
alliance resulted in the “Te” - literally “Hand” - form of Martial Arts.
Because of the martial rule of the Satsuma, “Te” was forced to exist as a secret style for many
years. Kata were disguised as dance and all written accounts of the style were suppressed. Te
divided into two schools, the Naha Te which was primarily defensive and the Shuri Te which was
offensive. Also during this time, Te practitioners developed Kata and individual techniques using
farm tools as weapons. Most of the weapons taught in modern Karate schools were at one time
simple farms tools. For example, the most famous, the “Nanchuka” was at one time a rice beater
used to separate the rice grains from the plants.
In 1890, Japan annexed Okinawa. “Te” was renamed “Karate-Jutsu “ or the “China hand art”. In
1903, impressed with the physiques of the Okinawan students who studied this martial art, the
Japanese government authorized Karate-justu as physical education in all Okinawan schools.
Funakoshi Gichin Sensei4, a prominent Okinawan instructor was invited to Japan to demonstrate
his forms at Japanese Universities. By 1924 Funakoshi Sensei showed that Karate could be part
of the university curriculum and Deio University in Tokyo became the first to organize a dojo.
Other Karate masters followed Funakoshi and each founded new styles. Funakoshi founded
Shotokan Karate. Mabuni Sensei the Shinto Style of Karate.
“Kata” translates as “form” but is used to describe the codified sequence of movements learned by all
students of Martial Arts. Kata will be discussed further in subsequent sections on this manual.
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Ieyaasu was the consumate warrior. In his diary he recorded a “typical” day. Awake at 5am, washed,
practice archery, 500 cuts with the sword, got married.
4
“Sensei” is generally translated as “Teacher” or Mister. It is a honorific suffix which can be used for
either male of female. Interestingly, the two characters “Sen” and “Sei” mean ‘before’ and ‘to be born’.
The implication is not that the teacher is chronologically older, but that he was “born’ into the learning of a
particular discipline before his students.
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By 1932, all Japanese universities had their own dojos. The character “Kara” meaning China was
replaced with the character for empty - still pronounced Kara - to form “Karate-justu”, the empty
hand art.
Karate comes to the US
In 1922, a Ch’uan Fa school opened in Hawaii. Accepting only Chinese students it was the first
martial arts school in the US. In 1927 Yabo Kensu Sensei, an Okinawan master, traveled to
Hawaii to demonstrate his techniques at the Honolulu YMCA. Okinawans living in Hawaii
convinced another master Motobu Chokei Sensei to open a school in Hawaii.
Following Chokei Sensei, two masters Mustu Suiho Sensei and Higaonna Kamusuke Sensei
opened the Karate Seinen Kai in Hawaii in 1933. Public demonstrations of the new art followed
and the first westerners to train studied under Mustu Sensei and Higaonna Sensei. From 1936 to
1942 interest in the arts waned. But in 1942 Dr. James Mitose opened the official self defense
club at Beretania mission in Honolulu. When he retired he left five students Thomas Young,
William Chow, Paul Yamaguchi, Arthur Keawe and Edward Lowe to carry the arts forward.
The Okinawan forms flourished after WW II when US servicemen who had studied the arts
abroad brought them back to the US. In 1960 Hirukazu Sensei of the Japan Karate Association
was sent to Hawaii to teach Shotokan, Funakoshi Sensei’s style. Popularity soon followed and
with it, Karate landed on mainland America.
The first known school opened in Provo, Utah in 1954 under Edward Parker Sensei. 5 Parker’s
demonstration during half-time at a basketball game attracted the interest of local police. Parker
Sensei soon began teaching his form to the Provo police department. In 1959, Parker Sensei
move to Pasadena, California where he opened a Kempo Karate school where he trained
celebrities such as Elke Sommer, Robert Culp, Ruta Lee and Elvis Presley.
By 1957, Karate had reached the eastern United States. Don Nagel Sensei opened an Isshin
Ryu dojo (an Okinawan form founded by Shimabuku Tatsuo Sensei ) in Jacksonville, North
Carolina. Nagel Sensei later opened a school in NJ which soon helped spread the arts through
the New York metropolitan area.
Other styles, from Korea, China, Thailand, Indonesia and elsewhere developed along with
Karate. These styles demonstrate a wide variety of techniques and are unique to their countries
of origin. Budo Ryu has it’s roots primarily in the Okinawan and Japanese traditions and therefore
their history is presented here.
Budo Ryu
Budo was developed by Edward Garrasi Sensei.
Garrasi Sensei first studied Shotokan Karate at the Asahi
Karate Club under Dick More Sensei and Mike Baycheck.
Before enlisting in the Navy, Garrasi Sensei continued to
study a wide variety of forms, including Okinawan Kempo.
Aboard the USS Montrail Garrasi Sensei was invited to
join the on-base Karate dojo where he initially taught
beginners. During his Navy service he studied Judo and
the Korean form Tae Kwon Do. He realized the wide
variety of techniques each style possessed beyond his
initial Shotokan training and this planted the seed for
Budo Ryu’s later development.
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Parker Sensei is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
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Upon discharge from the Navy, Garrasi Sensei returned to NJ and joined the dojo at the Bucks
County, Pa. YMCA under Bill Hodgkis Sensei. He advanced quickly, but just before his black belt
examination he was injured in a swimming accident. Unable to train, he taught Karate and began
to develop his own Kata based on his wide experience. One year later, he returned to training, but
soon broke his hand. Shortly after, Hodgkis Sensei closed his dojo and Garrasi Sensei joined the
Shotokan club at Mercer County Community College.
Don Stamile Sensei continued Garrasi Sensei’s training and after one year, promoted him to
Shodan - first degree black belt in Shotokan Karate.
By 1973, the kernel of the evolving style had already formed. Garrasi Sensei understood the
limitations of static forms and formulated a new style based in old traditions. The form would be
firmly rooted in practical application, but would grow and change to meet new challenges. The
style was called “MALSHA” – an acronym lost to even O-Sensei, but likely meaning “Martial Arts
Laboratory Sythesis of Hybrid Applications”. The exact name is unimportant, but the idea behind
it began to effect the students training and their view of martial arts. He began teaching MALSHA
at his home in Hightstown, NJ that year, but to grow the style, a more permanent dojo would be
needed.
In September 1976, Garrasi Sensei began teaching his new form at Mercer County College. The
style was popular with students because of its analytical approach and adaptability. By September
1979, Garrasi Sensei’s top student, Sheila Scott, opened her own dojo at Trenton State College.
In 1981, when Garrasi Sensei moved to Florida, he left the Mercer County dojo to his senior most
brown belt, Michael O’Neal.
During the next few months, both the Trenton State and Mercer County schools grew. In
September 1982, the Trenton State dojo was assumed by Eric Markowitz. On 30 October 1983,
Markowitz became the first black belt in Garrasi Sensei’s Malsha Freestyle Karate. Upon
graduation Markowitz Sensei opened his own dojo at the Boys Club in Clifton, NJ while the
Trenton State School was assumed by Lee Rose, then a senior green belt. After moving back to
Trenton Markowitz Sensei opened another dojo at the Jazzercise fitness center in Pennington, NJ
and a second at the Pennington School. Markowitz Sensei’s schools are called the “Nami” “wave” dojos.
In 1984, with it’s traditional Japanese background pressing for attention, Malsha was renamed
simply “Budo Ryu” - martial arts school.
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Garrasi Sensei moved north to established dojos in Jessup and Randlestown, Maryland in the
late 1980’s. Markowitz Sensei broke away from Budo Ryu, established his own schools in the
Pennington area and has three dojos under him or his students. O’Neal Sensei continued to
teach at Mercer County College until the late 1980’s and later opened a dojo at the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in East Brunswick, NJ. O’Neal Sensei’s dojo is called the
“Kumo” - “cloud” dojo.
Four Senseis - Graig DuPee, Jeff DeGroff, O-Sensei & O'Neal
Sensei, 2003
Today, Garrasi Sensei continues to train in the martial disciplines. He studies the ancient art of
Zen Archery called “Kyudo” and has risen to instructor of the style headed by the bow maker to
the Imperial Court of Japan, Kanjiro Shibata the 20th . 6
Today with your support and dedication, Budo Ryu continues to grow.
Training Principles
Dual Road - Physical and mental/spiritual
Karate in it’s finest form is a combination of both physical and mental principles. It is this union
which gives the martial arts is broad and long-enduring appeal. The physical principles are the
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Many Budo Ryu students and instructors have attained rank in a variety of martial arts. DeGroff Sensei is
trained in the Philipino stick fighting styles, DuPee Sensei holds a Ni-dan rank in Iaido and O’Neal Sensei
is a Shodan in both Iaido and Kendo.
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most well known. It is easy to recognize the techniques of the martial arts - the kicks, punches
and blocks. But the grounding of a student must be in the mental aspects of the way. Too often
well trained martial artists have resorted to thuggery simply because they are skilled fighters.
Discipline is the key to learning the true way of the martial arts. Physical discipline is a start, but
the real challenge is in the mental disciplines. To learn these takes more time, more patience,
more self-discovery.
The Techniques (Waza) of Budo Ryu
Budo Ryu embraces techniques from many traditional schools and has developed some of it’s
own. In the appendix of this manual you will find the Japanese terminology for the various strikes,
stances and blocks taught during class. These terms encompass the whole of the Budo Ryu
library of techniques.
Budo Ryu also teaches several different katas, well explained previously. These Kata are the
body of Budo Ryu.
For more advanced students, Budo Ryu Sensei’s are trained in a wide variety of additional
martial arts. Some Sensei have studied “Kendo” (Japanese Fencing) , “Kyudo” (Japanese
Archery), Iaido (Japanese Swordsmanship) or “Jodo” (Japanese short stick techniques) among
others. Ask your Sensei about their additional training. These additional techniques will be taught
to more advanced students as a means of broadening their knowledge and understanding of
Budo.
The Dojo
“Dojo” roughly translated means the “Place of the
Way”. “Do” translates as “way” or “path”. “Jo” means
building or place.
In martial arts, the “way” is the
methods of self-protection or self-perfection you are
studying. In this way, Dojo is synonymous with the
training hall. Generally this means a building where
you train, but the Dojo can be anywhere - your home,
a public park, a quiet field or a forest clearing anywhere where you practice your “way”.
Before entering the Dojo, students should be in
uniform ready to practice. Their Gi should be neat
and the belt tied. The Dojo-mon, the gateway to the
Dojo, marks the barrier between the outside world
and your training. When you enter, your mind should
be at rest. Concerns about money, job stress,
homework or any other daily cares should be left at
the door. Any thought which distracts the student
from their training makes both the student and the
instructors job more difficult and will certainly slow
learning.
Once ready to enter the dojo, students should place
their shoes on the “shoe-line”, toes facing into the
dojo. The rightmost position should be reserved for
the instructor’s shoes. Before crossing the shoe line and entering the dojo, the student must “rei”
(bow) as a sign of respect to the Sensei, fellow students and the Dojo itself. Stand at attention
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facing into the Dojo and calm your mind. Rei crisply, bending only at the waist, return to attention
and then enter the dojo. An old Japanese phrase states “You finish how you begin”. A well done,
sincere “rei” distinguishes the serious student.
If you arrive late to class, you must not enter without Sensei’s permission. Remove you shoes,
place them on the shoe line and stand at attention until invited to enter class. Senior students,
may request entry by saying “Sensei, Keiko Onegaishimasu” – literally “Sensei, Practice please.”
Dojo Regulations
Once you cross the shoe line, several rules should be observed.
1) During class the instructor will only be called “Sensei”.
2) When adjusting your gi or belt, the student should turn their back to the Sensei as a sign of
respect.
3) When asking a question, only a raised fist will bring a response from the Sensei.
4) No shoes should be worn in the Dojo.
5) Jewelry of any kind should be removed before entering the dojo due to the increased risk of
injury.
6) No eating in the dojo.
7) Once in the Dojo all students must conform to the Sensei’s authority.
8) Non-participants observing class are forbidden to engage in any form of exercise or training.
Although encouraged to observe class, spectators must remain quiet at all times in the dojo.
9) While waiting between techniques after a class has started, the student should rest in one of
three positions. During floor exercises, the student may sit in Seiza or lotus position (cross
legged), if during standing techniques, either Shizentai or Tsuru-ashi-dachi.
10) Talking during class should be kept to a minimum. Talking between students is only allowed
when discussing the techniques at hand.
11) Most importantly, always be respectful of others both in and outside of the Dojo. You actions
are a reflection on your school, your Sensei and yourself.
The Dojo Kun
The Dojo Kun is a short list of principles which help your training and attitude in class. Each
dojo may have a slightly different list, but the idea behind them will be the same. All traditional
Japanese dojos have their own Kun, each reflecting the ideas and attitudes of the head instructor.
Generally, the Dojo Kun is recited at the end of each class to remind students of their goals and
responsibilities.
Kumo Dojo Kun
 Honor your parents
 You must never lie
 Finish what you begin
 Work diligently in all things
 The Way is in Training
The Role of Zen
Because of it’s long association with the martial arts in Japan, students of Budo Ryu will learn
the basic principles of Zen. Zen developed from austere Buddhism, but it is not itself a religion. It
is a mental attitude, a philosophy that supports the martial disciplines well. It promotes selfreliance and encourages students to focus on the moment at hand.7
Almost from the time of it’s introduction in Japan, Zen and the martial arts have been
inseparable. Nearly all arts, martial and artistic, have a Zen component in Asian societies. To the
To the Zen practitioner the concepts of “future” and “past” are though to be creations of the intellect. The
only thing tangible is the present.
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Asian school of thought, they are not two separate entities, but two halves of one whole. In the
west, where Zen is not as well understood, the notion of a “religion” being taught alongside a
martial art is not well received. As a consequence, Zen training is often eliminated from most
schools thereby diminishing the experience. What we are exposed to is a “De-Zenned” art form
which in the east would be thought of as only half the training. Budo Ryu strives to reunify the
parted halves of the ancient traditions – Zen and the Martial Arts.
However, while some martial arts schools teach a particular religion or even require a student to
adhere to it, Budo Ryu students are not required to study Zen. It is not a religion and it’s principles
co-exist in harmony with nearly all world religions. Most devotee’s who have been exposed to Zen
agree that it has deepened their own spiritual natures and has helped them to grow in their own
religions.
While most students may have no interest in the deeper teachings of the Ryu, including the
study of Zen principles, students who expect to continue their training and become Budo Ryu
Instructors must have a grounding in the Zen philosophy as it pertains to their training.
Introduction to Zen
Most people have heard of Zen, but few can describe precisely what it is. It’s not for lack of
trying or in some cases lack of understanding. It’s simply difficult to describe in words. To most
the first impressions are of a spiritual, uncluttered, calm mind. But these words miss the mark.
To understand Zen philosophy, it is essential to live it. It cannot be transmitted to the student
through words alone.
Zen is one of a number of branches of the Buddhist philosophies. “Buddha” is the title given to
the founder of Buddhist teachings Sidhartha Gautama (563?-483?). His life has been
transformed from the few facts which are known into a legend which forms the basis from which
his later teachings emanate.
From earliest childhood Sidhartha was trained to follow in the footsteps of his father a great
ruler and skilled General. A seer was summoned to prophesy the young man’s destiny. “He will
be either a great philosopher or a great leader”. Sidhartha’s father wanted his son to follow in his
footsteps and study military ways. But the seer admonished him, Karma will decide the young
man’s fate.
Sidhartha’s life was ideal in every way. He spent his days in walled cities, each according to the
season in order to maintain a perfect and comfortable life. All around were the most beautiful
surroundings, free from suffering and hardship. His days were idyllic and his every wish attended
to. His isolation was complete and his exposure to the sufferings of life eliminated.
In isolation from the world outside, Sidhartha matured, unaware of life outside of the idyllic
setting in which he was raised. Although his father forbade him to leave the palace grounds, the
young prince was strong willed and disobeyed his father. Mist descended and while Sidhartha
pondered a way to get away unnoticed, everyone in the walled city fell into a deep sleep.
Sidhartha awoke his groom, mounted his white horse Kantaka, and with the numerous deities
muffling the horses steps at every stride, he made his way to the outside world.
As he rode through the city he saw for the first time, the ravages of the aged, sickness and
death.8 He was unaware that there could be any life other than the tranquillity he had so far
known. Deeply affected by what he saw, he vowed to find the reasons for human suffering.
In some versions of Buddha’s life, he sees these as visions or dreams, not as real events. Often he is said
to have taken three separate journeys, and discovered the aged, the sick and the dead separately on each.
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Sidhartha left his home to pursue a life of austerity. Recognizing that all human suffering
emanated from desire or fear, he vowed to meditate until he conquered these demons and
achieved enlightenment. Legend says he studied with Indian mystics for six years, practicing
various forms of extreme self-denial. But he found no peace with the mystics and traveled on
through the country. After his harsh existence with the mystics, Sidhartha bathed and ate a good
meal for the first time in years. He became peaceful and his vision cleared and he had a mental
image of what he sought. While in meditation he heard the sound of a stringed instrument being
tuned and realized that if too slack or too tight, the sound would not be true. The parallel between
a heightened state of awareness and the strong struck him deeply.
He wandered into a small village near Gaya and sat under a shady Bohdi tree. Under the Bodhi
tree he resolved to meditate until he achieved his enlightenment. Legend says after falling asleep
during meditation, he cut off his eyelids to prevent it and tea plants grew from the spot where they
landed. His limbs grew small and withered from disuse and eventually disappeared altogether.
Today the “Daruma” doll in Japan which appears as just a head with wide open eyes, is a
representation of Sidhartha as he meditated.
Throughout his meditations, he was challenged by his desires, fulfillment’s and regrets.
They appeared to him as three daughters. Legend embodies them as real beings, but they are
just manifestations of his struggles within his own mind. He rejects them all. Mara threatens him
with death – again not a real being a psychological manifestation – who hurls spears at Sidhartha.
But he touches the ground meaning “I am centered, solid and unafraid” and the spears turn to
lotus blossoms as they pierce the ground around him. Finally he is confronted by social
responsibility and duty. He is offered the opportunity to be worshipped, but he realizes it is simply
an illusion – his ego intruding. He rejects this as well and in that moment when final peace is
achieved, he gains his enlightenment. Immediately apparent is that what he has discovered
cannot be directly taught. It can only be achieved through personal experience and effort. 9
From this time forward he vowed to teach others his philosophy and began traveling the
country. He was then called “Buddha” which means “the One who has waked up”. In the next 10
centuries, Buddhist philosophy made its was through the near east, spawning several new
schools of thought. 10
Zen philosophy began in China in the sixth century with the meeting of Indian Buddhism and
Chinese Taoist philosophy. An Indian Buddhist Monk Bodhidharhma (c.470-532) traveled to
China to teach this philosophy.
The chief goal is to discover what the Zen masters call the
“Buddha Nature” or “Original Mind” inherent in ourselves. It is the nature of the self at birth; that is
simple, direct and uncluttered. It means to see things as they are, not as they appear, to be direct
and forthright with a simple grasp of the moment you are in. Originally called Ch’an in China, Zen
emphasized meditation over verbal teaching as the direct road to understanding it’s principles.
Two schools developed. The Northern school whose teachings emphasized gradual progression
towards enlightenment11 and the Southern school which taught that enlightenment was reached
suddenly. The Southern Schools dominate Zen to this day. Zen arrived in Japan around 1190
where the Rinzai and Soto sects are the most popular.
This enlightenment solves the “84th problem”. Buddha realizes we are beset with 83 problems in this life
and the solution to them is the answer to the 84th problem. Legend says a farmer asks him to teach him the
way to peace and revealed his struggles. At each problem, Buddha says “I cannot help you with that
problem”. Buddha says he can only solve the 84th problem. “What is that”, the farmer asked. “The belief
that you have to solve your problems.”
10
In an interesting footnote in the development of great philosophies, Confucius (551-479 BC) was
teaching his own philosophies around the time the Buddha was introducing Buddhism to the world.
11
Enlightenment means the discovery of the “Buddha-Nature” in you. It is used interchangeably with
“Satori”, the Japanese term for enlightenment.
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KoBudo12 and Zen
Warriors of the Kamakura period (1192-1392) were encouraged to study Zen as an adjunct to
their physical training. Zen’s philosophy is simplicity. There are no elaboration’s, no ceremonies
no teachings. The utter single-minded approach to a Samurai warriors duties made Zen the
perfect compliment to his physical training. Spiritual matters were left to the priests, monetary to
the merchants. The duty of the Samurai was to protect and serve and Zen supported this direct
approach.
The goal to Zen training is entirely personal. If Zen is studied under a “roshi”, a Zen master, the
student’s goal is to achieve “Enlightenment” or “Satori” through discipline, study and many hours
of seated meditation. Meditation “ZaZen” - literally “seated Zen” is thought to help the student
develop this calm, direct approach to life. The Zen master may provide clues, but the way to
understanding is entirely up to the student. The saying “The teacher opens the door, but the
student must enter himself.” expresses this perfectly. But the result is not a change in behavior,
you simply realize the nature of everyday life.
A student inquired to a Zen master, “Sensei, I have come to the temple to learn Zen. Please
show me the way.” “Have you eaten your rice gruel?”, asked the Sensei. “Yes, master” said the
student awaiting his reply. “Then wash your bowl.” But the simplicity of the Samurai was more
simply to avoid attachments to temporal things, to not distinguish between right and wrong, but
only to act. The principles of Zen state that when your thoughts are correct, your actions will be
too. Thinking about your actions then only clutters the process. This direct link between intention
and action in central to effective technique in the martial arts. No thought should cloud your
actions while sparring or performing kata. Simply doing them will reveal whether they are well
done or not.
You’ve heard of “beginner’s luck”, success at something without training. It often occurs when
the student has no knowledge of the “technique” they are trying to learn – just an open mind. It’s
an example of what a Zen practitioner would call “beginners mind”. O-Sensei relates his
experience with Japanese Archery – Kyudo – to illustrate this. His very first shot was a bulls-eye.
It was only after he began training – and thinking – that his shots began to fall short or fly left and
right. It’s a long road from training to a trained “beginners mind”, but it is the goal.
For Budo Ryu students the Zen notion of “no mind”, a mind free of intentions, thoughts, or
preconceptions is key to developing effective techniques. It sounds strange to say the best
fighters are not thinking when they fight or the most perfect techniques are done without
conscious effort, but this is precisely the goal. Certainly we’ve all heard the expression ”Don’t
think about it, just do it”. It is direct and to the point - once you’ve learned a technique so that it is
so ingrained in your mind that it can be executed without thought- the same way you’ve done it
1000 times previously while learning it - you can just do it, no thought required.
The Physical principles
Along with the mental principles, there are physical aspects of Budo Ryu. Although this list is
not exhaustive, it will give you an idea of what Budo Ryu training entails.
The Hara
For centuries Sensei’s have encouraged their students to strengthen their abdomens. The
Japanese word is “Hara” which translates as stomach or abdomen. But the ancient Japanese
thought not simply of the physical strengthening but of a spiritual one as well. The Hara was
thought to be the seat of the soul and by making it less vulnerable, the student would become
stronger as well.
12
KoBudo literally translates to “Ancient Martial Ways”.
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Western philosophy may disregard the Hara as the seat of the soul, but the ancient instructors
were wise to encourage their students to strengthen themselves. The abdomen has no skeletal
support and presents a weak spot in the Karateka’s13 defense. It is also the center of balance
and in order to perform techniques well, should be well controlled. It is impossible to execute any
Karate technique without involving the abdomen muscles and so a weak center wil mean a weak
technique. Lastly, during each technique through muscle and breath control, the Hara is tensed.
Because we may be struck at the instant we are in turn striking, it is important to be prepared for
this as well.
Most westerners have heard of “Hara Kiri” 14, the ritual disembowlment performed by Samurai
warriors during the Medieval period. Hara Kiri was performed to absolve the warrior of a crime or
to restore his integrity and family honor. Since he believed his “hara” contained his very essence,
his soul, by cutting his “hara”, he was exposing his soul to those present, showing with all certainty
that it was pure.
Power
The great power generated by Karate
strikes is well known. Images of Karate
masters breaking wood or smashing
bricks with their hands and feet are
among the most impressive.
But this
power is not a mystical force generated
by “secret” techniques. It is simply the
result of proper training both physically
and mentally.
Instead
of
an
unexplainable
supernatural force, the power in your
techniques is determined by one thing physics. By learning to understand the
physical nature of Karate, each student
will learn to properly coordinate their
actions to develop maximum power.
Body weight, speed, balance, breath
control and coordination combined in a
Karate strike bring it to it’s full potential.
Body Weight
The force of a strike is influenced first by body weight. It is a simple matter to say that a larger
student can generate more power than a smaller one. This is “potentially” true. Uncoordinated,
unfocused, sloppy technique by any student large or small will not fulfill it’s potential. A blow by a
smaller, faster, more focused and more coordinated Karateka will surely be more powerful. The
physics formula F=MA or Force = Mass (body weight) times Acceleration, clearly shows this. It
does not mean that the large will always be stronger or more powerful than the small. Consider a
slow, plodding strike from a large student to the same technique crisply executed by a smaller
Karateka. Thought smaller and lighter, than the large student, the former technique will certainly
be more effective.
Karateka - One who studies Karate’s physical aspects. By contrast a ”Budoka” studies both the external
and internal teachings.
14
Hara Kiri - Sometimes erroneously pronounced “Harry Karry”. To the Japanese Hara Kiri is a more
impolite term, the proper word is “Seppuku”.
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An effective analogy is one of a 100 pound mass moving at 10 MPH and a 10 pound mass
moving at 100 MPH. They both have the same force behind them, but the 10 pound mass will
arrive first. In a fight, it is often the first effective blow that determines the outcome. The extreme
example is a bullet – a very small mass moving at great speed. It’s impact is generated almost
entirely by his high velocity.
Speed
Speed is the second major factor in developing force. Much of your speed will be determined
by your muscle type. We consist of two basic types - fast twitch, which are characterized by short
duration, high speed movement and slow twitch muscles which have greater endurance, but are
slower to react to stimuli. The Africa Cheetah can run close to 70 miles per hour, but can only do
so for a few hundred yards at best. This is a fine example of fast twitch muscle in action. Zebras
on the other hand, have great endurance, and while much slower in the short run than the
Cheetah can often avoid injury by simply running longer than the Cheetah.
Our muscle makeup is primarily
determined by heredity. But through
training we can increase our speed by
coordinating the other factors that
produce speed.
Balance
When you first start training, you
will have poor balance.
Your
kinestectic sense of motion is not well
developed during average daily life.
The vestibular organs in the inner ear
send impulses about motion and the
position of your head to your brain.
These organs are made up of three
canals filled with fluid and fine hair
receptor cells which detect motion.
Other receptors in the joints,
muscles, ligaments and tendons
measure the rate of movement and
relay this information to the brain as well. Coordination depends upon the body’s reaction to the
information gathered from these various receptors. Interpreting this information is a learned skill
which few people will develop to any degree without training.
For the Karateka, we have additional challenges. Rarely during our daily activities do we find the
need to stand on one leg, or spin around quickly, or lift 150 pounds onto our backs. Yet these
things are done regularly during a
class. By training to stand on one leg
through slow motion Kata,, drilling the
various kicking techniques and
learning the proper footwork for
turning techniques, we can re-train
out sense of balance to a higher
degree. Some students may have
gymnastic or similar training which
has helped them along this path, but
all students will find benefit in
improved balance.
Recent studies suggest that elderly
practitioners of T’ai Chi Ch’uan, a
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Chinese Martial Art characterized by slow motion techniques, are injured less often due to
superior balance and muscle coordination.
Breath Control
In Japanese, the word for breath is “Ki”. It can also mean “steam” or “spirit”. When you inquire
about your Sensei’s health you would say “O-GenKi Desu Ka” - How are You. But it’s slightly more
complicated than that. “Gen” means origin or original, so GenKi15 means your “original Ki” or the
Ki you were born with.
It is the coordination of this energy, your Ki, that characterizes most
martial arts.
The loud barking sound you hear during class is called “KiAi”. Ai in this word means to join or to
meet. KiAi is the focusing, the meeting of your Ki during your techniques. It is extremely
important to be able to focus both your spiritual energy-your Ki- and your physical energy through
your technique into one simultaneous action. It is this union of physical action and breath control
which makes Karate techniques more powerful than those of untrained fighters.
Muscle Memory
When you run up a flight of stairs, do you think about which foot goes first ? Do you say to
yourself, “OK - left foot, right foot, left foot…”. No. If you did you would either be flat on your face
or it would take five minutes to get up the stairs. What you do everyday in climbing stairs is
exercising what we call “muscle memory”. It is the result of continuous repetition of something
until it becomes an unconscious act.
Babies climb stairs only with great effort. They have not yet committed the repetitive motion to
“muscle memory” and still have to think about each move as they go up or down the stairs. Our
Karate techniques are similarly “burned in” to our physical memories as we do them. This is also
called “habituation”. If you watch a musician play a familiar piece of music, you will notice they
cannot be distracted by someone speaking to them or by their concentration on another unrelated
task. Why ? Muscle memory. They have learned the movements associated with playing the
music that they no longer think about it.
In class you will be asked to do drills which are often less than interesting. Over and over for
hundreds of repetitions you will be asked to do the same simple punches, kicks , blocks and
combinations until you know them so well, they can be done without thought. The principle is to
learn them so well, that if you ever need to defend yourself, there will be no doubt about what to
do. Even if you “forget” - the technique is so well learned that it is done as you would breathe without a thought.
Unfortunately, learning Karate is slightly different than breathing. We cannot forget how to
breathe. But once you begin training, you will find it is easy enough to forget what you have
learned. The key to remembering and improving your technique is repetition every day.
Repetition and boredom are the single greatest causes of students stopping their training. If
you realize that at each class, with each repetition, you are improving your skills, learning a
technique so well that if you do stop practicing later in life, you will probably always “remember”
the moves. If you stop before having these techniques burned in, before your conscious mind
releases control of the technique to your body, you have no chance of using it effectively in a self
defense situation. To stay sharp you must train continually But to build these techniques into your
physical memory we must endure some boredom.
Ki is used in many Japanese terms such as “TenKi” - Heaven’s Ki, “ByoKi” - Sickness and “Ki Chigai” Crazy (literally “Wrong Ki”) among others.
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Fight or Flight
When you are confronted by danger, how do you react ? Your natural reactions are likely to be
increased heart and breathing rate and a release of adrenaline into your blood stream. You may
“freeze” It’s your body’s defense against a fight, gearing you up to either “fight” or run - “flight”.
Few of us are in danger often enough to learn to control these physical responses. As a result
we are often left with our knees knocking and our hands shaking after a close call.
In class you will find this response is exercised every time you spar. The danger is of course
less since your opponent will be trained - probably your senior - and in control. But your reaction
to their kicks punches and sometimes relentless attacks will produce your “Fight or Flight”
response. Every student experiences it from the most junior to the most senior. The difference is
in how they control the reaction and whether it enhances their fighting skills or hinders them.
Senior students have sparred literally hundreds of times. They have learned to recognize their
own “fight or flight” reaction and how to control it. At first it is unfamiliar and difficult. But through
repetition, concentration and guidance by the instructor, each student will learn to use this
heightened awareness and increased adrenaline to their advantage.
Kata
Literally translated “Kata” means “form”. Martial Arts Kata is a pre-arranged sequence of
movements done in sequence that teach and reinforce the basic principles of your training. Your
Kata will contain all the stances, blocks, strikes and kicks you will learn in class. It is a reference
library of techniques you carry with you in your mind from the time you begin training until long
after you end your training. Developed over many years, the Budo Ryu kata contains hundreds of
techniques from the most basic to those required to achieve Black Belt.
During every class the kata will be performed by
all students. It resembles a dance to the untrained
eye. Done slowly in training16, the kata is divided
into individual techniques called “sets”. Each set
represents one attack or one opponent and one
response to the situation. For your first belt
examination, you will know 10 sets of kata.
Therefore you will have ten different techniques
each in response to a different imaginary attack.
The practical use of the sets are called
“applications” and the student will be taught both
the attack and the response to the attack when
learning the kata. As you advance towards the
upper ranks, some sets deal with multiple attackers
or attacks weapons.
Budo Ryu maintains three distinct katas. The
KoBudo Kata, or the Old Budo Kata, the Shin-Budo
Kata or “New Budo Kata” and those kata from
various traditional martial arts learned outside of
Budo Ryu. The KoBudo kata was developed by Sensei’s Garrasi, Markowitz and O’Neal and
The term “T’ai Chi pace” recognizes the origins of this training method. The Chinese martial Art T’ai
Chi Ch’uan uses this very slow pacing almost exclusively to aid in the development of balance and
coordination.
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consists of 100 sets. Since each belt rank requires 10 sets and there are 10 individual ranks,
there are 100 sets in the KoBudo Kata.
O-Sensei recognized that many of the KoBudo techniques were developed from forms which
had little street application. That is they were unlikely to be effective in a self-defense situation.
By looking at video tape of many hours of sparring, O-Sensei devised a simple more direct kata
designed to provide “low investment - high yield” techniques for self-defense. These techniques
were then strung together to form the Shin-Budo Ryu Kata. Additionally, the first 20 techniques
were designed specifically for children to use against larger opponents. Many self-defense
situations were uncommon when the KoBudo Kata was developed are addressed in the Shin
Budo Kata. Together these two kata form the basis of Budo Ryu kata training.
Although the KoBudo kata is a static, unchanging kata, the Shin Budo kata is not. Confucius
said “Stiffness is the way of death”. He of course knew that when plants died they became stiff
and brittle, but he also meant that any person who was unable to adapt was in danger of being
passed by time. It wasn’t long ago that we wrote on paper instead of computer terminals. Now
we can send mail electronically or gather information on the Internet. Shin Budo Ryu Kata too
changes over time. Great experience in the martial arts does not make one perfect and the Budo
Ryu Kata was and is being developed by humans who will make errors. When Kata techniques
are found to be less than effective, they are changed or totally rejected and replaced with better
techniques. The senior most students and instructors develop and refine the Shin Budo Kata and
standard methods for testing it’s effectiveness are applied to each newly developed set.
Techniques which do not pass these tests are rejected, or modified to ensure they will be useful in
practical situations. Junior students are encouraged to participate in the process as well. Often,
the less formal training a student has, the more insightful they will be. The Shin-Budo Ryu Kata is
adaptable and a living form that continually grows.
All Budo Ryu Sensei’s have had training outside the Budo Ryu schools. O-Sensei encourages
students to explore other martial arts to gauge their strengths and weaknesses, learn new
techniques and katas and to keep Budo Ryu a vital and growing form by returning this new
knowledge and applying it to our developing style. Because of this many students and instructors
have learned forms passed on from the traditional Korean, Chinese of Japanese forms. These
forms are taught at the instructors discretion to students who have mastered the Budo Ryu Kata.
They are a way of keeping the traditional forms alive, allowing students to learn something about
other styles and providing additional techniques for the student to study.
Sparring - the first rule
Kata only prepares you for specific attacks. But few opponents “play by the rules”. It is certainly
impossible to stop a mugger in mid punch and instruct him to that he should be punching this way
or that because those are the defenses you’ve learned. Sparring fills the gap between Kata and
reality. It is how you test your techniques against an uncooperative opponent who is also testing
their techniques on you. Since Budo Ryu is essentially a self-defense oriented style, the very first
rule of sparring is simple - “Don’t get hit !”. Unfortunately, that is more difficult than it sounds.
Normally, beginners spar only the Sensei. Because the beginner can often not control what little
they know, their strikes are often erratic, unfocused and often uncontrolled. The Sensei acts as a
guide and since he has learned to recognize many different fighting styles and his reactions are
better and more trained, it is unlikely the beginner can do any real damage. It is also the Sensei’s
job to teach each student to realize the power they can generate even as beginners.
The Sensei’s role is to “surf” just ahead of the skill level of the student, but allowing them
occasional victories to help them improve their fighting. A one sided fight is no learning
experience. Students who are soundly beaten every time they spar often feel as if they are not
progressing even when they are. A Sensei who allows his students to score easy points, breeds a
false self-confidence in his charges.
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Once properly trained in delivering strikes with force, students are taught “focus”. Focus is a
skill that enables students to spar with each other without much risk of injury. Each student will
learn to gauge striking distance and force so that blows which in a real fight would cause great
damage are “focused”, pulling away after just a light touch or coming close with no touch at all.
This is the most difficult skill to master. In a sparring match with the adrenaline running through a
student, it is difficult to pull back. Many strikes are directed to highly sensitive areas - the head,
spine, groin or legs. The greatest skill you can achieve is being able to throw a full speed
technique with such control that it lands exactly where you want it to, leaving no doubt about the
intent, yet leave no mark on your sparring partner.
For self defense purposes, this is a useful skill. Statistics show that nearly all altercations occur
between friends or family. Since we would not want to hurt someone we know, the student needs
to know how hard a kick to the ribs to direct. Enough to knock the wind out of the opponent
perhaps, probably not enough to break the ribs. It is this “focus” of technique and force that
becomes valuable both in and out of class.
Drills Class drills consist of learning individual techniques or simple combinations of techniques and
then applying them repetitively in class. It is here that the techniques are truly learned. Only by
constant repetition can a kick or punch be perfected. It is probably the least interesting of the
activities in class to the beginner and the most interesting to the advanced student.
Beginners will learn simple techniques and the more advanced students will be taught
accordingly. Each will find something in their technique which needs improving and each will be
rewarded according to their efforts. Watch carefully the more senior students in class. During a
break or before class, what are they working on ? Complicated techniques ? Probably not. More
likely they are working on simple drills, basic kicks or punches or a blocking sequence. These
basic techniques are the foundation of your training. Learning to spar or do kata without having
first learned the most basic and simple of techniques is like a house built on sand. No matter how
well constructed it is, the foundation will not hold it up. You must build from the ground up on solid
fundamentals.
The Mental Principles
Zanshin
Primary among the mental postures is Zanshin. Roughly translated, zanshin means “alertness”.
For the Karate-ka, it is the essential attitude. When a Budo-ka reaches this mental attitude he is
aware not only of what lies immediately in front of him, but also behind, to the sides, above and
below. “Happo-Zanshin” or “eight direction Zanshin” is the ideal state of awareness, a closure of
weaknesses or gaps all around the student. If you study this carefully, you will see that this
attitude ceoms from a singular detachment from the hopes of winning and losing or gain and loss.
Once detached, your movements can become natural and free without atatchment to the
outcome.
In the dojo, zanshin finds it’s most frequent expression during sparring. The heightened sense of
awareness which comes with each sparring match promotes the development of zanshin. During
belt examinations, an exercise called “Dark Circle” is perhaps the most severe test of Zanshin.
The exercise begins with the student standing at Shizentai (attention) with their eyes closed. The
examiner will then randomly attack and the student expected to respond to each attack.
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Beyond maintaining awareness, Zanshin also denies your opponent of clues which reveal your
intentions. Your gaze is generally at your opponents solar plexus 17, the lower junction of the ribs
and sternum, but not focused on one spot specifically. Your see all of him at once from head to
toe. Your face is calm, unwrinkled, expressionless, revealing neither emotion nor intention . Your
opponent can not tell if you are angry, afraid, on the verge of attack or awaiting his first move.
You provide no feedback which might reveal yourself and by doing so make it impossible for your
opponent to know anything about you.
But Zanshin is not a temporary state of mind. Zanshin should be maintained at all times in and
out of class. When students bow to the Sensei to open and close the class, they bow eyes down,
showing their respect and trust of the Sensei’s good intentions. In ancient times, when the
intentions of the man in front of you would have been unknown in many cases, the rei (bow) was
performed low enough to show respect, but not low enough to lose sight of the opponent.
Further, if the bow was performed on the floor, the rei might be performed with the left knee down,
allowing a quick draw of the sword. The implicit meaning here was “I don’t trust you and my
Zanshin is unbroken”. In the dojo, this level of awareness is drilled every class during the various
exercises. Each student must train in this way to cultivate the “Happo Zanshin”.
Ma-Ai
In concert with Zanshin is the Ma-Ai. The two characters for Ma-Ai translate as “space or
opening” and “To meet or Join”. Ma-ai may be translated as the distance of combat of the
distance at which your opponent may strike - or you may strike them. It is thought of as an
invisible sphere which surrounds the Budo-ka which when breached, signals potential danger.
The Budo-Ka becomes aware of this distance in an acute way when sparring or when training with
the various Budo weapons.
The Mai-Ai is the buffer between the student and danger. It allows the space, and time, for the
Karateka to react to attacks. It is essential that each student learns this distance, as it varies from
student to student. Visualize it as the space surrounding the student – side to side, fore and afte,
above and below.
The flowing mind
The flowing mind derives from the Zen concept of No-Mind. That is that the student attempts to
maintain a mental state which does not focus on any one point, but maintains a flow of
consciousness. The phrase “Munen - Muso” means “no thoughts - no intentions”. It describes the
ideal state of mind for combat, that of intentionless action. When this state of mind is achieved
the Budo-ka does not react to external stimuli, they act. The act is detached from the thought
which in normal western philosophies spawned it. In Zen philosophy the body acts first, the mind
only finds out about it later. This state of mind is characterized by swift decisive action, flowing
motion and complete commitment to a particular technique. “to know and to Act - One and the
same”.
A beautiful explanation of the flowing mind comes from old Japanese literature. “The moon in
the cold stream like a mirror” has been used as an example of the flowing mind. You can
maintain focus of the moon although the stream flows quickly by underneath. The stream is like
your thoughts flowing by without stopping. Like a mirror, it reflects all it sees but captures nothing.
You do not freeze any one thing to analyze it, you simply let it go by. But your focus, your
“zanshin” state of mind, remains unchanged.
In Japanese the solar plexus is called “suigetsu”. The two characters which make up the word are
unravel/understand/explain and divide. The implication is that by reading your opponents “suigetsu” you
can know his intentions. It also implies that by denying your opponent this clue, you are remain
“unreadable” showing no physical or emotional intentions. What your opponent sees is simply a blank slate.
The word Zanshin and “Suigetsu” are used interchangeably.
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Ki-Ai
The most difficult to translate directly, Ki-Ai is perhaps the most important concept for the
beginning student. The character “Ki” means breath or air. “Ai” means to join or meet. “Ki-Ai” is
the concentration of effort in a single instant by strict coordination of the mind, body and breath
control. Whole martial disciplines have been built upon the development of “Ki” as a self-defense
weapon and Ki-Ai is central to nearly all Asian martial arts.
For the Budo-ka, Ki-Ai is first recognized as the loud, guttural yell used during training exercises.
It is used to focus concentration, unit intention with action, and coordinate the mind and body in a
single instant. It can also be used to startle your opponent, break their concentration and cause
them to lose their Zanshin. Your will exercise your Ki in class everyday during drilling and
sparring. But you will find that you will apply Ki in your everyday life in a variety of ways.
Budo-Ryu recognizes three distinct Ki sounds. “Open - Ki” the loud barking sound, “Silent-Ki” the
short exhale through the mouth and the “Cat-Ki” a particular raspy Ki which as the name implies
sounds much like a hissing cat. Each has a particular application in the Kata (forms) and in
sparring. As you progress you will learn to use each appropriately.
The grass and the oak
As you will discover during your training, many important principles are taught by the use of
parables. Many will be told in class, but one, “The Grass and the Oak” is so important, it will be
told here.
In a large field facing the Sea of Japan lived a great oak tree. Twisting out of its massive trunk,
impressive branches reached towards the afternoon sun. The oak was proud of its size and
strength and made no attempt at humility. He was certainly the strongest tree on earth he
thought.
All around the great oak a field of green grass spread before him. The grass was small and
compared to the oak, puny and weak. The summer winds rippled the great field and the Spring
rains caused the individual blades to bend under the weight. They were certainly no equal of the
Great Oak
The Oak had no such worries, the wind never moved him and the rain spilled off his great
branches and pounded the grass below. Everyday he looked down to the grass and said “You are
so puny and weak, even the winds blow you down. I am strong and bow to no wind.” The grass
could say nothing as they rocked to and fro in the gentle breezes.
One night a Tai Fune - “Great Wind” - blew across the sea. Lighting lit up the sky and great
waves crashed along the coastline. When the rain pounded the grass down, it bent, the droplets
ran into the soil and just as quickly, each blade bounced back unharmed. Fierce winds blew but
the grass bent with them, flowing with every breeze. The great oak, proud of his strength stood
before the wind, straining into the gale. His great branches stiffened and his massive trunk held
firm in the rain soaked soil.
The winds blew all night and it rained for hours on end. But by the morning the winds had
subsided and the sun shone brightly along the coast. Gentle waves broke on the shore and a
refreshing breeze rippled the field of grass.
Far to one side, the proud oak stood his last. Ripped from the ground during the night, his once
mighty branches lay round about in splinters, his great trunk resting on it’s side, roots exposed.
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For all his strength, he could not resist the TaiFune. All around him, warmed by the morning sun,
the grass swayed in the breeze.
Meditation (ZaZen)
“Know Your enemy, know yourself. In a hundred battles you will not be defeated.” Sun Tsu
considered to be the father of oriental martial strategy, set the ground for the complete study of
the martial arts in his book “The Art of War.” He stressed not only physical strategy, but all mental
strategy. Not only external action, but internal action.
As modern martial artists, we practice kicking and punching to understand the dynamics and the
physical qualities of our style. But in the 15th century, when your skill as a martial artist was often
the thin measurement between life and death, all martial arts were taught with a mental/internal
aspect. In Japan, this was the Zen philosophy. In Budo Ryu, the “mental martial tradition” is
taught in the form of Zazen – seated Zen meditation. Zazen does not attempt to bring you to a
special state of mind, or to teach special powers or philosophies. It is the essence of Sun Tsu’s
admonition to “know yourself”.
While the particulars of Zen mediation are taught in class, here below are the critical points as
taught by Zen Master Dogen.
For meditation a quiet room is suitable, eat and drink moderately, cast aside all involvements and
cease all affairs.
Do not think good or bad. Do not administer pros and cons
Cease of the movements of the conscious mind the gauging of all thoughts and views.
Have no designs on becoming a Buddha
Meditation has nothing whatever to do with sitting or lying down
At the site of your regular sitting spread out thick matting ands place a cushion above it.
Sit in a crossed legged position with your knees directly upon the mat
You should have you clothes loosely bound and arranged in order
Then place you right hand on your left leg and your left palm facing upward on your right palm,
thumbs touching
Thus sit upright in bodily posture, neither inclining to the left or to the right, neither leaning forward
or backward.
Be sure you ears are on a plane with your shoulders and your nose in line with your naval. Place
your tongue against the front rook of your mouth with teeth and lips both shut.
Your eyes should always remain open. And you should breath gently through your nose
Once you have adjusted your posture, take a deep breath, inhale and exhale rock you body right
and left and settle into a steady, immobile sitting position
.
After you have rocked your body, and settled into your sitting position bring your attention to your
breath.
Sitting erect, breathe fully and deeply from your diaphragm. Breathe from the center of your body,
place your focus on your breath .
Breath naturally and quietly, don’t force the breath in any way, just follow it
As you inhale be aware of breathing in, as you exhale be aware of breathing out.
In the beginning stages, since it is difficult to stay with the breath, counting each breath may help
you maintain your concentration.
Count 1 as you inhale, 2 as you exhale, continue counting to 10 then repeat
Again just follow the breath, as you do, thoughts will arise.
Don’t be bothered by them. Don’t think they are bad or that you shouldn’t be having them . Don’t
try to drive them away.
If you leave them alone, they will depart of their own accord.
This is how to cease all the movements of the conscious mind. You cannot do it by direct
application of your will.
If you find you have been distracted by thoughts and feelings and have forgotten your breath,
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just come back to the breathing. There is not need to scold yourself that you wandered away. To
scold yourself is to wander away again.
Resume counting from one
As you meditate, all kinds of self-comments may arise.
“There I go again, or
“I can’t do this, or
“I’m not very good at this, or even
“I am not sure I am doing this right”.
These comments are quite normal
Observe them and let them go.
They will depart if you let them.
Don’t strive for some special state of mind. There is no special state of mind, if you strive for some
special state of mind, you will only disturb your mind. This sitting meditation is not trance, it is not
rest, it is not relaxation. It is just awareness of breath, that’s all.
Gradually once your concentration increases, you can count just the exhalations, then just the
inhalations.
Once you can stay with the breath fairly regularly you can stop counting and follow the breath
alone. Beyond these simple instructions, the mediation itself will teach you what it is.
You will gradually learn to sit like a mountain.
Though thoughts will arise, they are merely clouds passing by the mountain.
The mountain need not be perturbed by clouds.
The clouds pass on and the mountain continues to
sit, observing all, grasping at nothing.
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Student Equipment
In addition to a good mental attitude, each student should have the correct equipment for
training. Fortunately, Karate requires little beyond you and your training clothes. Here are a few
items which may prove useful in class.
Your Gi
The proper uniform for the Dojo is a black Gi consisting of top pants and a belt which indicates
your rank. “Gi” means simply “clothes” so the uniform is sometimes called “Keiko Gi” or “practice
clothes”. Budo Ryu students where black simply because it is easier to keep clean. Outdoor
training in more common white Gi would certainly result in difficulties keeping your uniform looking
unsoiled. In keeping with old Japanese tradition, students may wear a “Hakama”, the particular
split-legged skirt worn over their Gi pants. The Hakama is especially useful in training with the
Japanese sword and so is used at all times when learning those techniques. For normal Karate
training though, students may opt to wear one or not.
The Mon
Mon are Japanese family crests. Early mon were simply designed and often indicated the
families place in society. In this way they are very similar to the European coat or arms. Samurai
families often used helmets, swords, bows and arrows or axes on their crests. Farmers might use
plows, merchants the product of their trades. Some families used the plants which represented
their names. Since “Tachibana” is a common family name which also means “orange blossom”,
the “Tachibana family uses the “Orange blossom” for their mon.
During the 300 years of civil war, soldiers used simplified family crests painted on banners
called “Sashimono” attached to their backs. This enabled friend and foe alike to quickly identify
each other on the battle field. Some soldiers used their own families crests, most used the crest
of their Lords.
Years after the civil wars ended, Mon became more stylized and complicated. Quick
recognition in combat gave way to more artistic purposes. Today thousands of different mon exist
and many are used in business as company logos.
The central Mon to Budo Ryu is that of the founder, Garrasi Sensei. O-Sensei’s mon is a circle
of bamboo with the Japanese character for “origin” within. The bamboo is symbolic of the flexible
nature of Budo Ryu, it’s adaptability and resilient nature. But bamboo also grows straight and
strong as do the students of the style. The character for origin - “moto” - signifies O-Sensei’s
place as the founder of the style.
O'Sensei's Mon
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Each Dojo will have it’s own mon. While all schools will wear O-Sensei’s mon on the back of
their Gi, the student will wear their own Sensei’s mon on the front. These individual mon are
designed by the instructors and reflect their personal taste and preferences. In this way all
students show their roots to the founder and their roots in their individual schools.
For the story of your dojo’s mon, ask your Sensei.
O'Neal Sensei's Mon
Care of your Gi.
Your Gi reflects your attitude as a student. More than simply clothing, the Gi embodies your
training and attitude. Because of this you should be mindful to treat your uniform with respect
and care. Never roll up your uniform and toss it into a dark corner. Either carefully fold your Gi or
roll is in the method described below. Although your uniform may be stretched or torn in class
and will often show wear from strenuous training, it should be clean and as neat as can be. Wear
is a natural result of training and shows dedication, but a sloppy and neglected uniform reflects
the students careless attitude.
You should wash your Gi to keep it clean, but never wash your belt. As a new student you will
be given a white belt. It is a sign that you are fresh and as yet, untrained. As you advance in rank
you are given a new belt, but if you never exchanged your belt, it would eventually turn yellow to
green to brown to black as the sweat from each class accumulated and attracted dirt was worn in.
This is the old tradition.
Tying your Obi (belt)
Your belt (obi) is a representation of all of your Karate training. You have worn it every class,
sweated on it and when you have improved your technique, changed it for a higher rank. Like
your Keiko Gi, it should be treated with respect. Simple rules apply.

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
Never wash your belt.
Never leave your belt on the floor or drag it around class.
Always fold your belt neatly when you are not wearing it.
Do not lose your belt. You may have re-test to get a replacement !
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Tying your belt properly is like learning Kata.
The more you do it, the easier it is to
remember. Always tie your belt tightly so that
it does not come loose during class and
always have it neatly tied before entering the
dojo.
If you have a belt with a rank stripe, always
start the rank stripe to your left - #2 in figure
1.
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
Start with the middle of the belt in
front of you.
Wrap it around the back
Figure 3


Figure 1
Figure 4
Figure 2
 Loop #2 underneath the entire belt –
both loops
 Swap sides so that #2 is to your
right (Figure 4)
Figure 5
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Drop #2 over the belt.
Loop #1 back over and then through
#2 then as in figure 5.
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual


Pull tightly left to right (not up and
down).
If done correctly, there will be a
triangle formed with the apex to your
right and your stripes (if any) will
also be on your right.
Figure 6
The Hakama
The Hakama is a traditional Japanese split-skirt worn by both men and women. It has wide legs
and allows great freedom of movement. When tied properly, it also provides some lower back
support. Although the hakama can be worn on the most formal occasions when traditional
clothing is worn, your training hakama is likely to be made of more coarse material.
In ancient times, when worn informally or in combat, the legs of the hakama were secured just
below the knee. The wide upper portion of the hakama would then look like a pair of wide pants.
Running with the hakama unbound is not an easy task and requires some practice, but when
secured is little problem.
Folding your Gi and Hakama
Protective padding
Padding is required when sparring, and then only to protect the attacker ! We practice low to no-contact
sparring. Full control of your techniques is essential to learning restraint and the proper application of force.
Blocking, however, is more difficult to regulate. Sharp elbows and tender shins or feet often clash with
painful results. Blocks are designed as much to prevent you from being hit as to discourage your attacker’s
advances.
Many drills in class require padding as well. In class, we should be unrestrained by the potential for
injury. Forearm, elbow and shin pads are useful to the learning process. Your will find that although you
can practice successfully without pads, as a courtesy to your training partners, they should be worn. Most
students start with elbow pads since your elbows tend to be the most dangerous - and effective - blocking
tool you have.
O-Sensei would recommend that you wear the following:

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

Elbow and Forearm pads
Shin pads
Protective “cup” for male students
Knee pads (not required)
Instep pads (not required)
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While we practice the utmost care when drilling or sparring, it is important to minimize the potential for
injury. Protect yourself and your training partners.
Budo weapons
During your training you will learn to use a variety of Japanese traditional weapons. The Bo (long
staff), Jo (short staff), Katana (sword) and the Yumi (Japanese Long Bow) can all be taught.
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Kihon Waza
Kihon waza are basic techniques of Budo Ryu. These are the primary stances, blocks, kicks &
punches which are common throughout many of the training exercises and Kata. Many are
common to most martial arts styles.
This portion of the student manual will explain these techniques in detail. It is not intended to
replace your training in class, but will supplement your training, answer questions and give the
student a handy reference for most of the primary techniques.
All techniques and stances can be done left or right handed. Unlike most things, Karate is not
biased towards one side or the other. You should train both sides equally. Naturally, you will favor
your strongest side, but you must attempt to train your weak side to be equal to your strong. This
is a favorite principle – do not put one thing against another – strive for harmony. In training you
can think of this as “balance” of your two sides, left and right.
The section is divided into four basic parts.
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Stances
Blocks
Punches
Kicks
Study each section carefully. Pay particular attention to the “key points” of each technique and
apply this in class. Observe the senior students in class, model their technique. With proper focus
and continual practice you will be able to master all of the basic techniques and build a strong
foundation for learning the more advanced waza taught in class.
Remember – Kihon Waza are the basic techniques upon which all other training depends. If you
do not learn them thoroughly and properly you will never master the more advanced techniques.
Stances
Stances are the root of all of your technique. They are the foundation upon which all kicks,
punches and blocks depend. They are directly related to your mobility, your ability to be in proper
position to defend and attack. All proper technique, whether you are a well experienced black
belt or a student just beginning, is dependent upon the quality of your stances.
The Japanese word for stance is “kamae” – posture. It means both physical posture and mental
posture, but for the beginning student, it should mean primarily physical posture. Proper position
of the body, arms, legs, head, eyes, etc. Your Kamae indicates how well you have trained. Even
the most advanced students continually practice their stances – follow the descriptions below
closely and pay attention to detail.
There are 6 basic stances in Budo Ryu. They are listed below in order of importance.
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Shizentai – Natural Stance
This is the first stance you will learn and it is repeated ever time you come to class no matter what
training exercises your do. It is the first stance Sensei will see and the last and is an indication of
your seriousness as a student.
Key points:
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Feet 1 shoulder width apart – toes straight forward
Your back should be straight
Chin tucked in
Eyes forward – not down
Hands in fists, relaxed
Generally, you are relaxed, but ready to move.
Strengths:
1. All around balance
2. Builds posture
3. Not aggressive looking
Weaknesses:
1. Hands in a poor defensive posture
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Kumo Ashi dachi – “Cloud Foot Stance”
Kumo Ashi Dachi is the basic fighting stance. It is the most important training stance in the style
and should be the primary focus of your training in the beginning. It is the most useful fighting
stance, it will improve your balance, leg strength and firmly ground you.
This stance can be done left or right handed. The left-handed version is described below.
Key Points:
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Right foot back
Feet close enough together to get the weight off of your front foot. This will vary slightly
from person to person
Left foot flat on the floor, but with no weight upon it – as if you were stepping on a cloud.
Both legs bent – very springy. Your must be able to move quickly in this stance.
Back more or less straight.
Left hip forward.
Right hand closed in “Seppuku” position
Left hand closed, shoulder high, but not in front of your face. Slightly to the outside (Left)
of the stance). This gives you a clear view ahead. Do not block you view with your own fist
and arm.
Strengths:
1. Best combination offensive and defensive posture
2. Builds leg strength and balance
3. Front foot is deceptive – no need to shift weight before kicking with it.
Weaknesses:
1. It must be trained constantly to be effective.
2. Fatiguing to stay in for long periods
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Neko Ashi Dachi – Cat Stance
Cat stance is very similar to cloud foot stance with some minor variations. Like Kumo Ashi, it is a
good fighting stance, but you must practice moving with the proper posture and form.
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Feet are closer together, but this distance will vary from person to person.
Very little weight on front foot. Some people prefer no weight on the front foot.
Front foot is on the ball, not flat like Kumo Ashi.
Posture is more forward, less to the side.
Hand position varies, but similar to Kumo Ashi.
Strengths:
1. Good offensive/defensive stance
2. Builds leg strength and balance
3. Front foot easy to use, but not deceptive like Kumo Ashi Dachi
Weaknesses:
1. Fatiguing to stay in for long periods.
2. Forward hip posture gives opponent better targets
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Kokutsu dachi - Back Stance
Kokutsu Dachi is similar to both Kumo Ashi and Neko Ashi Dachi’s. In older forms of Karate, it is
more like Neko Ashi Dachi with most of the weight on the back foot, but in Budo Ryu and most
more modern styles the weight is more evenly distributed.
Key Points
 Feet two shoulder widths apart – this varies slight from student to student
 Both legs are bent, flexible, but strong.
 Feet are flat on the ground – rooted to the floor
 Front foot toes are directly forward, rear foot toes or about 45% from perpendicular.
 Body and hip are completely sideways.
 Face forward looking over your shoulder
 Weight should be 60% on rear foot, 40% on front.
 Hands are open – Shuto Uke – Knife-hand block.
 Your left hand should be shoulder high, turned out slightly with the back of the hand and
the forearm forming one line. Like Kumo Ashi dachi, you hand and arm should not block
your view ahead.
 You right hand should be flat, like a table, palm up, able to hold a glass of water.
Strengths:
1. Good offensive/defensive stance
2. Builds leg strength and balance
3. Front foot easy to use, but not deceptive like Kumo Ashi Dachi
Weaknesses:
1. Not as flexible as Kumo Ashi Dachi.
2. Since weight is 60% on rear foot, slight more difficult to move without shifting weight.
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Kibadachi – Horse Stance
Like it’s name implies, this stance gives the appearance of riding a horse. It is a primary training
stance and appears numerous times in the kata.
Key Points
 Your feet should be two shoulder widths apart and almost parallel
 Your weight should be evenly distributed between your feet.
 Your back should be straight.
 Your hips should be tucked forward slightly. This of a light shining from your naval – it
should be above the horizon, not below.
 Bend your knees !
 Hand positions can vary, but primary is straight at your sides, elbows slightly bent.
Strengths:
1. Build legs strength
2. Excellent for training
3. Simple for beginners to master
Weaknesses:
1. Difficult to move quickly
2. Weight must be shift to attack with legs
3. Vulnerable to leg attacks
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Zenkutsu-dachi/Gedan-Barai -Front stance
Key Points
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

Your stance should be one shoulder width wide and two shoulder widths deep.
Your feet should be as parallel as possible.
Your hips and shoulders should be forward – not turning to the side.
Your back leg should be straight – locked, rooted to the floor.
Your front leg should be bent and your calf should be perpendicular with the floor.
Your back should be straight.
Your left arm should be slightly bent. Your left fist should be one fist’s distance above
your thigh.
Your right arm should be fist hip on guard on your belt or above. The higher your rank, the
higher the fist should rise.
Your Hip on Guard elbow should be tucked close to your body –do not let your elbow flare
out away from your body.
Strengths:
1. Build strength and body posture
2. Good for training coordination and timing
3. Very strong front to back
4. Excellent for use in high power forward facing techniques - like breaking boards
Weaknesses:
1. Impossible to move quickly
2. Weight shift required for any attack
3. Forward facing hips leave many targets for opponents
4. Vulnerable to leg attacks
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Blocks
Blocking is a complicated area. There are many, many blocks, varieties of the basic techniques,
hard, soft, linear, circular blocks, leg, arm, hips, foot blocks. To discuss them all would take
virtually another entire student manual. However, there are a few blocks which are repeated so
frequently that they can be considered Kihon waza.
All of the following blocks are forearm blocks the striking point being between the elbow and wrist.
Rising block
Use to protect the head from an overhead attack.
Key points
 Arm is angled
 Arm is above the head high enough to prevent the strike from touching your head.
 Wrist is just off-center
 Wrist is turned either downward or towards your head – not towards your opponent.
Middle block
This block meant to protect the middle of the body in front – it is done at two distinct heights. The
first is to protect the head/face, the second to protect the mid-section. It also occurs in two
directions, inside and outside. Both heights and directions share the same key points.
Key points
 For protecting the face, the elbow is shoulder high. For the mid section, the first is
shoulder high.
 The wrist is bent towards the attack. This prevents the attack from slipping over the block.
Downward block
This block can be used to protect the back or sides.
Key points
 Elbow must be slight bent. If the elbow is locked and hit by the opponents attack, you, not
the opponent, will be injured.
 Wrist and forearm form one continuous line – your wrist is not bent.
Punches
There are 2 basic punches in Budo Ryu. Others will be taught as our training progresses.
Hammer Fist Punch
The first punch you will learn. It is generally executed from horse stance, but can be done from
any posture. The instructions below apply to horse stance.
In class is it taught first as a three part exercise, but it must be thought of as a single movement.
Key points
 Generally, you should be relaxed through the entire punch except the moment of impact
with the target. If you are tense throughout, you will waste energy and slow your punch.
 Your fist should rotate as it approaches the target, ending it’s rotation when it impacts.
 Punch is aimed at the solar plexus – the center of the body. Both punches, left and right
should strike the same exact spot.
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
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Your arm should be locked when the punch is delivered.
Your wrist should be lock – not bent either up nor down.
Equally, your should aim the punch to strike with the knuckles of your index and middle
fingers. The ring finger and pinky finger knuckles are not used.
Think of punching from the floor – not from your arm – but more from your legs
Your non-punching hand should always be fist hip on guard, ready to punch next.
For slightly more advanced students, your hips should swivel at each punch. Keep your
head stationary – do not allow it to move up and down or left and right – only pivot your
torso.
When swiveling, the punching arm is straight and locked, so is the leg on that side. The
opposite side is bent, like your arm when hip on guard.
Breathe in when preparing to punch, breathe out when you strike
Tighten the Hara when you impact the opponent, then relax and prepare the next strike
Jack punch
This punch is practiced from Kumo Ashi, Neko Ashi and Kokustudachi. It is a low poser punch
and cannot be used against all targets
Key points
 The basic Jack punch is from the shoulder.
 Your targets should be the softest areas of the body – face, throat, groin. Because the
punch has little power, a jack punch to the body is not likely to be effective.
 Wrist is locked vertically – the punch does not rotate.
 You must concentrate to ensure the index and middle finger knuckles strike the target –
the smaller knuckles tend to lead the punch if you are careless.
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Kicks
There are 6 basic kicks in Budo Ryu. All six are used in the first 10 sets of kata and re-used
repeatedly in the kata all the way to black-belt.
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Front Kick – Mae Geri
This is the first stance you will learn
Key points
 The basic Jack punch is from the shoulder.
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Side Kick – Yoko Keage
Key points
 Hands should always be in ready position to
block. For a left kick, left hand is down, right hand
is up mid chest, but slightly off of the body.
 Face towards the target, do not look away when
you kick.
 Came to crane stance first – load the kick before
firing.
 Strive to strike with the side of the foot, close to
the heel. Turn your hip slightly when kicking to
lead with the heel.
 Lock you leg when you kick – fully extend.
 Return to crane stance after the kick – stay centered.
41
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Round House Kick
Key points
 The basic Jack punch is from the shoulder.
42
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Crescent Kick
Key points
 The basic Jack punch is from the shoulder.
43
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Training techniques
Some of the basic training techniques are described below. Like the instruction of Kihon Waza,
this is not meant to replace your training in the dojo. Only through proper instruction and correct
practice can you learn the techniques well.
Blocking Kata Old style
Blocking Kata Modern Style
Blocking Kata – Rotary two-person drill
Thug Alley/Spider Web/Inverted Spider Web Kicking Kata Short form
Kicking Kata Full form
Sparring. Technique and practice
44
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Belt Rank and Advancement Testing
Before a student achieves their next belt rank, they must first pass a test of Budo Ryu knowledge
and techniques. Before testing students must:
1) Demonstrate during a pre-test or during normal class activities that they know and can
demonstrate all requirements for advancement. Your Sensei will not allow you to test if he is
uncertain of success.
2) The candidate must have attended 80% of all scheduled classes since the last examination.
This rule does not apply to shiro-obi (white belt) students.
3) The candidate must own and wear a complete regulation uniform appropriate to their rank
and school.
4) The student must pre-pay the non-refundable testing fee, usually $15.00. The fee covers the
cost for a new belt and advancement certificate.
5) The student must have submitted a completed membership form.
Shiken (examinations) are on a pass/fail scale. Each student will be given a review by the Sensei
after their test to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of their test. In this way each student
can concentrate on their own goals for the next examination.
Generally speaking examinations are given at two or three month intervals. Some dojo may test
more or less frequently at the instructors discretion. The chart below outlines the belt ranks and
their class time requirements.
Belt test judges will be higher ranking students and instructors from your dojo and possibly other
Budo Ryu dojos. At least one black belt instructor should be present at examinations.
Scoring is based on several categories; Kata, sparring, KiAi, reaction response, specific
techniques and attitude among others.
Belt Ranking
All students begin their training as a white belt. No test is required for this rank. Budo Ryu
recognizes two belt ranking systems, both given below. The Northern schools currently use the
Old system. O-Sensei’s southern dojo uses the new system.
Ranking system
Rank number Rank Name
Old Belt system
Classes
10th Kyu
Jyu-kyu
White
From day 1
9th Kyu
Ku-kyu
Yellow
20
8th Kyu
Hachi-Kyu
One Stripe Yellow
35
7th Kyu
Shichi-kyu
Two Stripe Yellow
55
6th Kyu
Rok-kyu
Green
85
5th Kyu
Go-kyu
One Stripe Green
105
4th Kyu
Yon-kyu
Two Stripe Green
144
3rd Kyu
San-kyu
Brown
168
45
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
2nd Kyu
Ni-kyu
One Stripe Brown
192
1st Kyu
Ik-kyu
Two Stripe Brown
216
1st Dan
Shodan
Black
306*
*Plus a one year wait from promotion to Ikkyu and a research term paper whose topic will be
chosen by the student and Sensei.
Kyu Requirements
Each belt rank has it’s own specific requirements. Students should study the requirements for
their next advancement first and foremost. Much of the information you need is contained in this
manual, but some requirements are taught only in class.
If you have questions about the
requirements for next advancement, please feel free to ask the senior students or your Sensei.
The answers for most of the questions at each belt rank are contained in this manual. However,
some things are not covered anywhere but in class and some questions can only be answered
after much training and self-discovery.
The following pages are your record of your training. As each requirement is completed,
Sensei or one of the senior students will verify you have completed the requirement and sign your
manual. After all of the requirements for your next belt rank have been completed, you will be
allowed to test for rank. This way, all students will be certain to learn all they need to know for
promotion and no one will ever be unsure of when they are eligible to test. Keep this record safe
and check your progress. If you do not have the answer to a question or lack a skill you require
for your next rank – ask a senior student for help.
Class credit will be given for each class attended, class outings outside the dojo, extra training
with Sensei, attendance of related cultural activities (Chinese New Year celebration for example)
and attendance of the senior portion of the Saturday class.
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Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Belt Requirements
9th Kyu Yellow Belt
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Yellow Belt
All of these requirements must be signed off before you may test for this
rank ! No exceptions !
Req.
#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19


Requirement
Student must attend 20 classes
Student must own Gi/belt and know how to tie their belt properly.
Student must perform 10 sets of Kobudo Kata
Student must demonstrate one application
Student must demonstrate Dark Circle
Student must demonstrate sparring with Sensei
Student must demonstrate proper Rei for entering
Dojo.
Student must know proper etiquette when arriving late to class.
Student must demonstrate all four basic stances;
Horse stance, back stance, front stance and cloud foot stance.
Student must demonstrate 5 basic kicks;
Front, side, round house, Chinese crescent and Japanese crescent.
Student must demonstrate hammer fist and walking punching.
Student must know the name of their style of Karate.
Student must their Sensei’s name and rank.
Student must know the founder of Budo Ryu Karate
Student must know the proper part of the foot to strike with the five
basic kicks in requirement 10.
Student must demonstrate a front and reverse front punch and know
why they are different.
Student must know the story of the Grass and the Oak.
Student must the Japanese term for:
“Thank You” & “I humbly receive
Belt Ceremony required at all ranks
Requirement may only be tested by this rank or above.
The first 6 requirements are required at every rank.
47
Test
By *
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Green
Sensei
Sensei
Yellow
Yellow
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Insho
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Belt Requirements
8th Kyu Yellow Belt
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Yellow one stripe
All of these requirements must be signed off before you may test for this
rank ! No exceptions !
Req.
#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25


Requirement
Student must attend 35 classes.
Student must own Gi/belt and know how to tie their belt properly. All
patches must be in place.
Student must perform 20 sets of Kobudo Kata
Student must demonstrate two applications.
Student must demonstrate Dark Circle.
Student must demonstrate sparring with Sensei
Student must demonstrate proper Rei for entering
Dojo. (9)
Student must know proper etiquette when arriving late to class. (9)
Student must demonstrate all four basic stances;
Horse stance, back stance, front stance and cloud foot stance.(9)
Student must demonstrate 5 basic kicks;
Front, side, round house, Chinese crescent and Japanese crescent.
(9)
Student must demonstrate hammer fist and walking punching. (9)
Student must know the name of their style of Karate. (9)
Student must their Sensei’s name and rank.(9)
Student must know the founder of Budo Ryu Karate.(9)
Student must know the proper part of the foot to strike with the five
basic kicks in requirement 10. (9)
Student must demonstrate a front and reverse front punch and know
why they are different. (9)
Student must know the story of the Grass and the Oak. (9)
Student must demonstrate traveling side and roundhouse kicks.
Student must know the blocking kata.
Student must know when Budo Ryu was formed.
Student must know who Bodhidahrma was.
Student must explain why we bow in class to Sensei and sempai.
Student must know the mechanics of punching – what part of fist to
strike with, elbow position, leg position, etc.
Student must know the Japanese terms for;
“Stop”, “Begin”, “End” and “I’d like to go to the bathroom.”
Belt Ceremony required at all ranks
Test
By *
Sensei
Sensei
Insho
Sensei
Green
Sensei
Sensei
Yellow
Yellow
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Sensei
Sensei
Green
Green
Green
Requirement may only be tested by this rank or above.
Number in parentheses after requirements indicate this requirement required at the
indicated lower ranks. i.e (9,8) indicates requirement also applies to 9th and 8th kyu
ranks.
48
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Belt Requirements
7th Kyu Yellow Belt
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Yellow two stripes
All of these requirements must be signed off before you may test for this
rank ! No exceptions !
Req.
#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25


Requirement
Student must attend 55 classes
Student must own Gi/belt and know how to tie their belt properly. All
patches must be in place.
Student must perform 20 sets of Kobudo Kata
Student must demonstrate three applications.
Student must demonstrate Dark Circle.
Student must demonstrate sparring with Sensei
Student must demonstrate proper Rei for entering
Dojo. (9,8)
Student must know proper etiquette when arriving late to class and
phrase for requesting entry. (9,8)
Student must demonstrate all four basic stances;
Horse stance, back stance, front stance and cloud foot stance. (9,8)
Student must demonstrate 6 basic kicks;
Front, side, round house, hook kick, Chinese crescent and
Japanese crescent. (9,8)
Student must demonstrate sticky hands sparring.
Student must know the “caterpillar story” and how it relates to Budo
Ryu.
Student must know the significance of O-Sensei’s mon.
Student must know the significance of their own Dojo’s mon.
Student must identify 5 vital strike areas.
Student must explain why we practice slow Kata.
Student must know why there are two katas – the KoBudo Kata and
the ShinBudo Kata.
Student must demonstrate traveling side and roundhouse kicks. (8)
Student must know the blocking kata. (8)
Student must know when Budo Ryu was formed. (8)
Student must know who Bodhidahrma was. (8)
Student must explain why we bow in class to Sensei and sempai. (8)
Student must know the mechanics of punching – what part of fist to
strike with, elbow position, leg position, etc. (8)
Student must know the Japanese terms for;
The numbers 1 through 10, “Good”, “Bad” and “switch”.
Belt Ceremony required at all ranks
Test
By *
Sensei
Sensei
Insho
Sensei
Green
Sensei
Sensei
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Brown
Green
Green
Green
Green
Brown
Green
Green
Green
Sensei
Sensei
Green
Green
Green
Requirement may only be tested by this rank or above.
Number in parentheses after requirements indicate this requirement required at the
indicated lower ranks. i.e (9,8) indicates requirement also applies to 9th and 8th kyu
ranks.
49
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Belt Requirements
6th Kyu Green Belt
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Green Belt
All of these requirements must be signed off before you may test for this
rank ! No exceptions !
Req.
#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25


Requirement
Student must attend 85 classes
Student must own Gi/belt and know how to tie their belt properly. All
patches must be in place.
Student must perform 30 sets of Kobudo Kata in both slow and fast
fashion.
Student must demonstrate four applications.
Student must demonstrate Dark Circle.
Student must demonstrate sparring with Sensei
Student must demonstrate a two-drill technique at Sensei’s
discretion.
Student must know proper etiquette when arriving late to class and
phrase for requesting entry. (7)
Student must demonstrate all four basic stances;
Horse stance, back stance, front stance and cloud foot
stance.(9,8,7)
Student must demonstrate 6 basic kicks;
Front, side, round house, hook kick, Chinese crescent and
Japanese crescent. (9,8,7)
Student must demonstrate sticky hands sparring. (7)
Student must demonstrate proper break-fall technique.
Student must know the significance of O-Sensei’s mon. (7)
Student must know the significance of their own Dojo’s mon. (7)
Student must identify 5 vital strike areas. (7)
Student must demonstrate one throwing technique.
Student must know why there are two katas – the KoBudo Kata and
the ShinBudo Kata. (7)
Student must demonstrate traveling side and roundhouse kicks
combinations. (8,7)
Student must know the blocking kata. (8,7)
Stduent must know what “Empty your Cup” means.
Student must know what Zanshin means.
Student must explain “Do” (the way).
Student must know basic knife defense.
In addition to lower Kyu terms, the student must know the Japanese
terms for;
“Turn around”, “Sit”, “Meditate”.
Belt Ceremony required at all ranks
Test
By *
Sensei
Sensei
Insho
Sensei
Brown
Sensei
Sensei
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Sensei
Sensei
Brown
Green
Green
Requirement may only be tested by this rank or above.
Number in parentheses after requirements indicate this requirement required at the
indicated lower ranks. i.e (9,8) indicates requirement also applies to 9th and 8th kyu
ranks.
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Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Belt Requirements
5th Kyu Green Belt
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Green one stripe
All of these requirements must be signed off before you may test for this
rank ! No exceptions !
Req.
#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26


Requirement
Student must attend 105 classes
Student must own Gi/belt and know how to tie their belt properly. All
patches must be in place.
Student must perform 40 sets of Kobudo Kata in both slow and fast
fashion.
Student must demonstrate five applications.
Student must demonstrate Dark Circle.
Student must demonstrate sparring with Sensei
Student must demonstrate a three-drill technique at Sensei’s
discretion. (6)
Student must know basic ground fighting.
Student must demonstrate these basic stances;
Horse stance, back stance, cat stance, front stance and cloud foot
stance. (9,8,7,6)
Student must demonstrate 6 basic kicks;
Front, side, round house, hook kick, Chinese crescent and
Japanese crescent. (9,8,7,6)
Student must demonstrate sticky hands sparring. (7,6)
Student must demonstrate proper break-fall technique. (6)
Student must demonstrate spinning side kick.
Student must explain why we meditate in class.
Student must identify 5 vital strike areas. (7,6)
Student must demonstrate one throwing technique. (6)
Student must demonstrate proper basic technique for one Kobudo
Weapon.
Student must demonstrate traveling kick combinations. (8,7,6)
Student must know the kicking kata.
Student must explain what they have learned after studying BudoRyu
Karate.
Student must know what Zanshin means. (6)
Student must explain “Do” (the way). (6)
Student must know basic knife defense.(6)
In addition to lower Kyu terms, the student must know the Japanese
terms for;
“Good morning”, “quiet”, “once again”, “together”
Belt Ceremony required at all ranks
Student must demonstrate Zazen
Test
By *
Sensei
Sensei
Insho
Sensei
Brown
Sensei
Sensei
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Sensei
Sensei
Brown
Brown
Brown
Sensei
Requirement may only be tested by this rank or above.
Number in parentheses after requirements indicate this requirement required at the
indicated lower ranks. i.e (9,8) indicates requirement also applies to 9th and 8th kyu
ranks.
51
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Belt Requirements
4th Kyu Green Belt
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS- Green two stripes
All of these requirements must be signed off before you may test for this
rank ! No exceptions !
Req.
#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26


Requirement
Student must attend 144 classes
Student must own Gi/belt and know how to tie their belt properly. All
patches must be in place.
Student must perform 40 sets of Kobudo Kata in both slow and fast
fashion.
Student must demonstrate six applications.
Student must demonstrate Dark Circle with multiple attackers.
Student must demonstrate sparring with Sensei and one lower rank.
Attackers will be single and double.
Student must demonstrate a three-drill technique at Sensei’s
discretion. (6,5)
Student must know basic ground fighting. (5)
Student must explain the benefits and weaknesses of these basic
stances;
Horse stance, back stance, cat stance, front stance and cloud foot
stance. (9,8,7,6,5)
Student must demonstrate 6 basic kicks;
Front, side, round house, hook kick, Chinese crescent and
Japanese crescent. (9,8,7,6,5)
Student must demonstrate proficiency at all types of Kiai and
sanchine breathing.
Student must demonstrate proper break-fall technique both
backwards (simple) and forward (forward roll). (6,5)
Student must explain the benefits of repetition.
Student must explain why we meditate in class. (5)
Student must identify 10 vital strike areas. (7,6,5)
Student must demonstrate one throwing technique. (6,5)
Student must demonstrate proper basic technique for one Kobudo
Weapon. (5)
Student must demonstrate traveling kick combinations. (8,7,6,5)
Student must know the kicking kata. (5)
Student must explain the benefits of self-discipline.
Student must know what Zanshin means. (6,5)
Student must explain “Do” (the way). (6,5)
Student must know basic knife defense. (6,5)
In addition to lower Kyu terms, the student must know the Japanese
terms for;
“Good afternoon”, “Come Here”, “Pleased to meet you”
Student must supervise a sparring session
Belt Ceremony required at all ranks
Test
By *
Sensei
Sensei
Insho
Sensei
Brown
Sensei
Sensei/Gr
een
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Brown
Sensei
Sensei
Brown
Brown
Brown
Green
Requirement may only be tested by this rank or above.
Number in parentheses after requirements indicate this requirement required at the indicated lower ranks.
i.e (9,8) indicates requirement also applies to 9th and 8th kyu ranks.
52
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Belt Requirements
3th Kyu Brown Belt
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Brown
All of these requirements must be signed off before you may test for this
rank ! No exceptions !
Req.
#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
Requirement
Student must attend 168 classes
Student must own Gi/belt and know how to tie their belt properly. All
patches must be in place.
Student must perform 50 sets of Kobudo Kata in both slow and fast
fashion.
Student must demonstrate seven applications.
Student must demonstrate Dark Circle with multiple attackers.
Student must demonstrate sparring with Sensei and one lower rank.
Attackers will be single and double.
Student must demonstrate assorted drills at Sensei’s discretion.
(6,5,4)
Student must know basic ground fighting. (5,4)
Student must explain the benefits and weaknesses of these basic
stances; Horse stance, back stance, cat stance, front stance and
cloud foot stance. (9,8,7,6,5,4)
Student must demonstrate all basic kicks, including but not limited to;
Front, side, round house, hook kick, Chinese crescent and
Japanese crescent. (9,8,7,6,5,4)
Student must demonstrate proficiency at all types of Kiai and
sanchine breathing. (4)
Student must demonstrate proper break-fall technique both
backwards (simple) and forward (forward roll). (6,5,4)
Student must explain the benefits of repetition. (4)
Student must explain why we meditate in class. (4)
Student must identify 10 vital strike areas and the effects of a strike
to each. (7,6,5,4)
Student must demonstrate two throwing techniques. (6,5,4)
Student must demonstrate proper basic technique for one Kobudo
Weapon and partial kata.++ (5,4)
Student must demonstrate traveling kick combinations. (8,7,6,5,4)
Student must know the kicking kata. (5,4)
Student must be able to teach the basic stances, punching technique
and three basic kicks.
Student must know what Zanshin means. (6,5,4)
Student must explain “Do” (the way). (6,5,4)
Student must know basic knife defense. (6,5,4)
In addition to lower Kyu terms, the student must know the Japanese
terms for; “Stop”, “Upper/Middle/Lower”
Student must demonstrate knowledge of the basic Jungian
“telegraphs”.
Belt Ceremony required at all ranks
Test
By *
Sensei
Sensei
Insho
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei/Gr
een
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
* Requirement may only be tested by this rank or above.
++ “Partial Kata” means the rudiments of a Kobudo weapon kata from a discipline of the student’s choice.

Number in parentheses after requirements indicate this requirement required at the indicated lower ranks.
i.e (9,8) indicates requirement also applies to 9th and 8th kyu ranks.
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Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Belt Requirements
2nd Kyu – Brown Belt
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Brown - one stripe
All of these requirements must be signed off before you may test for this
rank ! No exceptions !
Req.
#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
Requirement
Student must attend 192 classes
Student must own Gi/belt and know how to tie their belt properly. All
patches must be in place.
Student must perform 60 sets of Kobudo Kata in both slow and fast
fashion. Other kata may be performed for additional credit.
Student must demonstrate eight applications.
Student must demonstrate Dark Circle with multiple attackers.
Student must demonstrate sparring with Sensei and one lower rank.
Attackers will be single and double and one may be armed.
Student must demonstrate assorted drills at Sensei’s discretion.
(6,5,4,3)
Student must demonstrate proficiency at ground fighting techniques.
(5,4,3)
Student must explain the benefits and weaknesses of these basic
stances;Horse stance, back stance, cat stance, front stance and
cloud foot stance (9,8,7,6,5,4,3)
Student must demonstrate all basic kicks, including but not limited
to;Front, side, round house, hook kick, whip kick, Axe kick, Chinese
crescent and Japanese crescent. (9,8,7,6,5,4,3)
Student must demonstrate how to set up a basic board break.
Student must demonstrate proper break-fall technique both
backwards (simple) and forward (forward roll). (6,5,4,3)
Student must explain the benefits of teaching.
Student must name three other martial arts.
Student must identify 10 vital strike areas and the effects of a strike
to each. (7,6,5,4,3)
Student must demonstrate two throwing techniques. (6,5,4,3)
Student must demonstrate proper basic technique for one Kobudo
Weapon and partial kata.++ (5,4,3)
Students must know what “The way is in training“ means.
Student must know the kicking kata. (5,4,3)
Student must be able to teach the basic stances, punching technique
and three basic kicks. (3)
Student must know what Zanshin means. (6,5,4,3)
Student must explain “Do” (the way). (6,5,4,3)
Student must know knife defense.
In addition to lower Kyu terms, the student must know the Japanese
terms for; “Test”, “Loyalty”, “Focus”
Student must demonstrate knowledge of the basic Jungian
“telegraphs”. (3)
Belt Ceremony required at all ranks
26
* Requirement may only be tested by this rank or above.
Test
By *
Sensei
Sensei
Insho
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei/Gr
een
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
++ “Partial Kata” means the rudiments of a Kobudo weapon kata from a discipline of the students choice.

Number in parentheses after requirements indicate this requirement required at the indicated lower ranks.
i.e (9,8) indicates requirement also applies to 9th and 8th kyu ranks.
54
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Belt Requirements
1st Kyu Brown Belt
PRE-TEST REQUIREMENTS Brown - two stripes
All of these requirements must be signed off before you may test for this
rank ! No exceptions !
Req.
#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
25
25
Requirement
Student must attend 216 classes
Student must own Gi/belt and know how to tie their belt properly. All
patches must be in place.
Student must perform 60 sets of Kobudo Kata in both slow and fast
fashion. Other kata may be performed for additional credit.
Student must demonstrate nine or more applications.
Student must demonstrate Dark Circle with multiple attackers.
Student must demonstrate sparring with Sensei and one lower rank.
Attackers will be single and double and one may be armed.
Student must demonstrate assorted drills at Sensei’s discretion.
(6,5,4,3,2)
Student must demonstrate the ability teach green belt level drills and
techniques retaining students respect and control.
.Student must demonstrate basic first aid.
Student must demonstrate all basic kicks, including but not limited
to;Front, side, round house, hook kick, Chinese crescent and
Japanese crescent. (9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2)
Student must demonstrate the ability to set up and break at least one
board with any technique (2).
Student must demonstrate proper break-fall technique both
backwards (simple) and forward (forward roll). (6,5,4,3,2)
Student must explain the benefits of teaching. (2)
Student must name three traditional Japanese Martial Arts. (2)
Student must identify 10 vital strike areas and the effects of a strike
to each.(7,6,5,4,3,2)
Student must demonstrate two throwing techniques.(6,5,4,3,2)
Student must demonstrate proper technique for one Kobudo
Weapon and full kata. (5,4,3,2)
Students must know what “The way is in training“ means. (2)
Student must know the kicking kata. (5,4,3,2)
Student must be able to teach the basic stances, punching technique
and three basic kicks. (3,2)
Student must know what “Enzan no Metsuke” means.
Student must explain the relationship of Zen to Martial training.
Student must demonstrate high-speed sticky hands sparring.
Student must give five reasons to teach Budo Ryu Karate.
Student must demonstrate knowledge of the Jungian “telegraphs”.
(3,2)
Belt Ceremony required at all ranks
Student must demonstrate Zazen
Student must know the story of Chushingura
Test
By *
Sensei
Sensei
Insho
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei/Gr
een
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
Sensei
* Requirement may only be tested by this rank or above.
 Number in parentheses after requirements indicate this requirement required at the indicated lower ranks.
i.e (9,8) indicates requirement also applies to 9th and 8th kyu ranks.
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Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Terminology Dictionary
There are literally thousands of terms and phrases that students will hear during their studies.
Many like “Ki-Ai” are difficult to translate and the real meaning can only be learned through
training. The names of stances for example are used everyday in class and will quickly become
rote memory. Below is a list of several hundred terms which you may encounter during your
training. The most important are highlighted. Those required at a particular belt rank are
highlighted in the color of that belt. All yellow belt terms for example are highlighted in yellow.
The list is long and few students who do not study Japanese will ever remember all of them, but
you will be surprised how many you remember during your training.
Misc. Terms
Japanese Term
A
Arigato
Ashi
Prounciation
English Translation
Ah-ree-ga-toe
Ah-Shee
Thank you (informal)
Leg or foot
B
Budo
Budoka
Boo-doe
Boo-doe-ka
Martial ways
Students of Budo
C
Chudan
Choo-Dahn
Middle
D
Dame
Dan
dojo
Domo Arigato
Gozaimasu
Do Itashimashite
Dah-May
Dahn
Doe-joe
Doe-Moe Ah-ree-gah-toe
Go-zai-mahs
Doh-Ee-tah-shee-mah-shee-tay
Bad
Grade (rank)
Training hall
Thank you very much (polite)
G
Gedan
Gi
Go
Gay-Dahn
Gee
Goh
You’re welcome
Lower
Uniform - training clothes
Five
H
Hai
Hai, Wakarimasu
Hachi
Hajime
Hantai
Hidari
Hi
Hi, Wah-ka-ree-mahs
Hah-chee
Ha-jee-may
Hahn-Tie
Hee-dah-ree
I
Ii
Iie
Iie, Wakarimasen
Issho Ni
Ichido
Ee
Ee-ay
Ee-ay Wah-ka-ree-mah-sen
Ee-show-Nee
Ee-chee-doe
Yes
Yes, I understand
Eight
Begin
Reverse/switch/oppose
Left
56
Good
No
No, I do not understand
Together
One time
Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Ichi
Ippon
Itadakimasu
Ee-chi
Ee-pohn
E-tah-dah-key-mahs
One
One point
I humbly receive
J
Jodan
Ju
Joe-dahn
Jew
Upper
Ten
K
Koko Kitte Kudasai
Karateka
Kamae
Ki-ai
Koshi
Kyu
Kumite
Kyaku-Dachi
Konbanwa
Konichiwa
Kyu
Kyukei
Ko-ko kit-tay koo-dah-sigh
Kah-rah-tay-ka
Kah-mah-ay
Kee-eye
Koe-shi
Q
Koo-me-tay
Key-yah-koo Dah-chee
Kon-bahn-wah
Koh-nee-chee-wa
Q
Q-Kay
Come here please
Karate student
Posture, stance
shout
Hips
Class, rank
Fight
One leg stance
Good evening
Good afternoon
Nine
(take a) Break
M
Magarimasu
Migi
Moo Ichido
Mukuso
Mah-Gah-ree-mahs
Mee-Gee
Moe-Eee-chee-doe
Moo-koo-soh
Reverse, turn around
Right
Once again
Meditate
N
Ni
Knee
Two
O
Ohayo Gozaimasu
Owarimasu
Ohio Goh-za-ee-mahs
Oh-wah-ree-mahs
Good morning
to finish
R
Ryo
Ryo-Goshi
Rei
Roku
Ree-Yoh
Ree-Yoh Go-shee
Ray
Roe-koo
Both
Both sides
Bow
Six
S
Seiza
Sokuto
Suigetsu
San
Shi
Shichi
Say-zah
Soh-ku-toe
Soo-ee-gayt-sue
Sahn
She
Shee-chee
Sit (Formal style)
Side of the foot
Solar plexus
Three
Four
Seven
T
Tekubi
Tanden
Tatte Kudasai
Tay-koo-bee
Than-den
Tah-tay Koo-dah-sigh
Wrist
Navel
Please stand
U
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Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Ushiro
Oo-shee-roe
Behind, to the back
W
Wakarimasu
Wakarimasen
Wah-kah-ree-mahs
Wah-kah-ree-mah-sen
(I) Understand
(I) do not understand
Y
Yame
Yasumimasu
Yukkuri
Yah-may
Yah-sue-mee-mahs
You-koo-ree
Stop
(I) will take a break/rest
Slowly
Z
Zenwan
Zen-wahn
Forearm
Hand Strikes
Japanese Term
C
Chudan Tsuki
Prounciation
English Translation
Chew-dahn Sue-Key
Mid level punch
E
Empi uchi
Ehm-pee Oo-chee
Elbow strike
G
Gedan Tsuki
Gyaku Tsuki
Gay-dahn sue-key
Gee-yah-koo sue-key
Low level punch
Reverse punch
H
Haito
Hidari Tsuki
Hi-toe
Hee-dah-ree Sue-key
Ridge hand
left punch
J
Jodan Tsuki
Joe-dahn Sue-key
High level (upper) punch
K
Karate
Ken
Kentsui
Kah-rah-tay
Ken
Kent-sue-ee
Empty hand
Fist
Hammer fist
M
Migi Tsuki
Mee-gee Sue-key
Right punch
N
Nukite
New-key-tay
Knife hand
O
Oi Tsuki
Oyayubi Ipponken
Oy - Sue-key
O-yah-you-bee Ee-pon-ken
Jack punch (lunge punch)
Thumb-one-finger fist
R
Ryu-to ken
Ryo- ken
Ree-you-toe-ken
Ree-yo ken
Dragon head fist
Both fists (two fists)
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Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
S
Shuto
Sho
Shotei
Shoe-toe
Show
Show-tay
Knife hand
Palm
Heel palm
T
Te
Tsuki
Tettsui
Tay
Sue-Key
Tayt-soo-ee
Hand
Strike
Bottom fist
U
Ura Ken
Oo-rah Ken
Back fist
Blocking Techniques
Japanese Term
A
Age Uke
Age-Juji-Uke
Prounciation
English Translation
Ah-gay oo-kay
Ah-gay Jew-Gee Oo-kay
Rising block
Rising “X” block
C
Chudan Uke
Chudan Uchi Uke
Chew-dahn-oo-kay
Chew-dahn-oo-chee- oo-kay
Middle block
Inside to outside block (violin block)
G
Gedan Uke
Gedan Juji Uke
Gay-dahn-oo-kay
Gay-Dah Jew-Gee Oo-kay
Lower block
Lower “X” block
J
Jodan Uke
Jope-dahn-oo-kay
Upper block
K
Kake Uke
Kah-kay Oo-kay
M
Morote Uke
Moe-roe-tay Oo-kay
Two arm block
N
Nagashi Uke
Nah-Gah-shee-oo-kay
Sweep block
S
Shuto Uke
Shoe-toe Oo-kay
Knife hand block
U
Uke
Ushiro Uke
Ooo-kay
Oo-shee-roe Oo-kay
Block
Block to the rear
Hooking block
Stances
Japanese Term
Prounciation
English Translation
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Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
D
Dachi
Dah-chee
Stance
G
Gedan Barai
Gay-Dahn Bah-rye
Downward sweep (Front stance)
H
Heisoku dachi
Hay-so-koo Dah-chee
Closed foot stance
K
Kokutsu dachi
Kumo Ashi Dachi
Kiba Dachi
Koh-koo-sue Dah-chee
Koo-moh- Ah-shee Dah-chi
Kee-bah Dah-chee
Back stance
Cloud foot stance
Horse stance
N
Neko Ashi Dachi
Nay-koh Ah-shee Dah-chee
Cat stance
R
Rei no Ji Dachi
Ray-no-Jee Dah-chee
“L” stance
S
Seiza
Say-za
Sit formally
Suwatte
Sue-wah-tay
Sit informally (Cross legged)
Shizentai
She-zen-tie
Natural stance
Seiuchin Dachi
Say-oo-chin Dah-chee
“knock-knee” stance
T
Tsuru Ashi Dachi
Tsoo-roo Ah-shee Dah-chee
Crane stance
Z
Zenkutsu Dachi
Zen-Koo-tsoo Dah-chee
Forward leg stance (Front stance)
Kicking Techniques
Japanese Term
Prounciation
C
Chugoku Mikazuki Geri Chew-goh-ku Mee-kah-zoo-key
Gay-ree
English Translation
Chinese cresent kick
H
Hidari Mae Geri
Hidari Yoko Keage
He-dah-ray Mah-ay Gay-ree
Left front kick
He-dah-ray Yoh-koh Key-ah-gay Left side kick
K
Kagi Geri
Keri
Keage
Kakato-Geri
Kah-gee Gay-ree
Kay-ree
Key-ah-gay
Kah-kah-toe gay-ree
M
Mae Geri
Migi Mae Geri
Migi Yoko Keage
Mah-ay Gay-ree
Front kick
Mee-gee mah-ay Gay-ree
right front kick
Mee-gee Yoh-koh Key-ah-gay right side kick
Hook kick
Kicking
Kick
Heel kick
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Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Mawaru Geri
Mikazuki Geri
Mah-wah-roo Gay-ree
Mee-kah-zoo-key Gay-ree
N
Nihon no Mikazuki Geri Knee-hohn no Mee-kah-zookey Gay-ree
Round house kick
Crescent kick
Japanese Cresent kick
T
Tobi Mae Geri
Toe-Bee Mah-ay Gay-ree
Jump front kick
U\
Ushiro Geri
Oo-Shee-roe Gay-ree
Back kick
Y
Yoko Keage
Yoh-Koh Kay-ah-gay
Side kick
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Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Recommended Reading for further study
Zen
Zen in the Art if Archery, Eugen Herrigal, Vintage Books, 1971
Zen in the Martial Arts, Joe Hyams, Bantam Books, NYC, 1982
The Three Pillars of Zen, Roshi Philip Kapleau, Anchor Books, 1989
Japanese Culture/History
Autumn Lightning, David Lowry, Shambala Press, Boston, 1985
Bushido, The Soul of Japan, Inazo Nitobe, Charles E. Tuttle Co., Rutland Vt., 1982
Hagakure, Yamamoto Tsnuetomo William Scott Wilson, Trans. Avon Books, NYC 1981
The Tale of Genji, Murasaki Shikabu, Vintage Classics, NYC, 1990
Tales of Old Japan, AB Mitford, Charles Tuttle Co. Rutland Vt.1983
Travels in the Lands of the Gods, The Japan Diaries of Richard Gordon Smith, Victorian Manthorpe Ed.
Prentice Hall, NYC, 1986
Related Martial Arts
A Book of Five Rings, Miyamoto Musashi, Victor Harris Trans., Overlook Press, Woodstock, NY 1982
This is Kendo, Gordon Warner and Junzo Sashimori, Charles Tuttle Co. Rutland Vt. 1984
Japanese Swordsmanship, Gordon Warner and Donn Draeger, Weatherhill, New York, 1982
The Art of War, Sun Tzu, Samuel B. Griffith, Trans., Oxford Univ. Press, NYC, 1971
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Budo Ryu Karate - Student Manual
Kempo, 3, 5
Kendo, 2, 7, 41
Ki, 13, 18, 35, 36
KoBudo, 10, 15, 26, 27
1
18 Hands of Lo Han, 3
M
B
Ma-Ai, 17
Markowitz, 6, 15
Michael O’Neal., 6
Mon, 20
Bodhidahrma, 3, 25, 26
Buddha, 9, 10
Budo-Ka, 17
C
N
Ch’uan Fa, 4, 5
No Way Way, 1
D
O
Dojo, 7, 8, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27
Don Stamile, 5
O-Sensei, 6, 11, 15, 20, 21, 22, 26, 27
P
E
Pankration, 3
Edward Garrasi, 5
Emperor Wu, 3
S
F
Shaolin Kempo, 3
Sidhartha, 9, 10
family crests, 20
Fight or Flight, 14
Funakoshi, 4, 5
Funakoshi Gichin, 4
T
The grass and the oak, 18
The Hakama, 20, 21
The Hara, 11
The Role of Zen, 8
Tode, 4
G
Garrasi Sensei, 5, 6, 20
Gi, 7, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 32, 34, 35
W
H
What is Budo Ryu, 1
Hara Kiri, 12
Hun-Gar Kung Fu, 3
Y
I
Yumi, 21
Iaido, 2, 7
Z
J
Zanshin, 16, 17, 18, 27, 28, 29, 30, 32
Zen, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 17, 34, 37, 39, 41
Judo, 2
K
Kata, 3, 4, 5, 7, 13, 14, 15, 18, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28,
29, 30, 32, 34
Katana, 21
63