Once a decision is made, there is no mind in the technique, no hesitation; win or lose, one must give everything. In karate classes for adults, we focus on applying this concept fully so the mind is clear, allowing us to become more sensitive, intuitive, and aware when we try less.
Very few of us use the full potential of our musculoskeletal system. In adult karate classes, we train to overcome fear, past trauma, and joint protection, while developing the mental ability not to hold back—applying ourselves fully to one purpose.
Take Usain Bolt, the fastest man in the world: each step he takes generates over 1000 lb of force. While the average person could damage their joints, in karate classes for adults, we learn to safely generate maximum power through proper form, postural alignment, and sequencing.
Stabilization strength is another critical focus in karate classes for adults. By holding stances for long periods, smaller stabilizing muscles activate first, allowing the bigger muscles to produce maximum force safely. The center of the body, the Tan Den, becomes the intention center, ensuring every action starts mentally and physically from the right place.
Breathing from the lower stomach activates the center and ground reaction, allowing the whole body musculature to work together and maximize muscle recruitment in the shortest time. This is why in adult karate classes, instructors emphasise that “there is no mind in the technique” and as Sensei Nishiyama said, “giving all breath is giving all energy” or “Kiai destroys opponent.”