:: Training
:: Kihon
:: Kata
:: Kumite

"in karate there is
no first strike"

This statement figuratively means that the karate student does not initiate violence. Karate was always a defensive martial art. The initiation of a strike is offense and is opposite to the defensive attitude of the well-trained karate student.

Before a conflict starts to look like it may turn into a fight, attempt to prevent the eruption of violence.

In kumite, or sparring, the objective is not merely to defeat the opponent, but to test oneself against that opporent. This is the test to self. To observe the opponent, absorb their action, to break their timing, and to transform all this into a winning counterstroke. Again, BOLDNESS. To hesitate is to lose. There is no time for thought. The athlete must execute at the proper moment with a speed born of trained reflexive action. To attack, is boldness. There is no room for fear, injury, or of loss. This is spirit.