Grappling Arts from Around the World

Grappling is a concept in combat sports that consist of grabbing and manipulating the opponent. Grappling moves include takedowns, throws, holds, and sweeps, but no striking moves like punching and kicking. Grappling works well for up-close combat and self-defense.

Take a look at grappling arts from China and Korea!

Shuai Chiao – Shuai Chiao, sometimes spelled Shuai Jiao, is the most ancient Chinese martial art. It was first used by the Chinese military in 2697 B.C. and used to feature more violent moves, like striking, joint locks, and even bone breaking and joint dislocation. Now Shuai Chiao focuses more on grappling. The goal is to throw opponent to ground while you’re still standing, or to fall with them, but end up on top of them.

Ssireum – Ssireum is a Korean grappling sport that takes place in a sand pit. You and your opponent’s hands are linked by belts at each other’s waists and thighs. The goal is to throw the opponent off balance and have any part of their body above the knee touch the ground. Ssireum began in the fourth century and is now a national sport in Korea. 

Learn about Sambo, a fighting system from Russia on our website!

Study Judo in Ann Arbor

Does grappling sound fun to you?

It certainly can be! Judo free practice, called randori, is considered to be “play” by many judo students because it’s so much fun!

Are you nervous about long term contracts?

You can sign up for a 2-month trial membership at JMAC to make sure judo is right for you!

 To start practicing judo in Ann Arbor, contact JMAC today!

A Brief History of Grappling Arts

Do you want to increase your strength?

Fighting systems that use grappling may be right for you!

Here are two common martial arts that use grappling:

Judo – Judo is a Japanese martial art based on the principle that a smaller person can take on a larger, stronger opponent with the right skills. Judo was formed by Jigoro Kano in 1882 and uses throws, takedowns, chokes, and joint locks. Most throws require grabbing the opponent’s gi. To win a judo match, you can perform an ippon - throwing the opponent down on their back - make the opponent submit, or score the most points by performing throws, locks, and holds.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) – Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is the Brazilian form of Japanese jujutsu created by Carlos Gracie in 1920s. Unlike Judo, BJJ takes place mostly on the ground using takedowns, chokes, and joint locks. The goal in BJJ is to get your opponent to the ground and have them submit.

Learn more about grappling arts!

Study Judo in Ann Arbor

Does grappling sound fun to you?

It certainly can be! Judo free practice, called randori, is considered to be “play” by many judo students because it’s so much fun!

Are you nervous about long term contracts?

You can sign up for a 2-month trial membership at JMAC to make sure judo is right for you!

 To start practicing judo in Ann Arbor, contact JMAC today!

Beginner Falls

Want to learn how to fall safely?

Follow these instructions for beginner falls!

Two-Hand Back Fall: This fall utilizes all the basics. From a sitting position, keep your arms outstretched and keep your legs straight and together. Then, lean back while lifting your legs into the air, and as soon as your back hits the mat, slap with both hands and come back down to the sitting position.

With these same principles, you can do one-handed back falls and side to side falls.

Standing Back Fall: When you fall standing up, you don’t want to fall straight like a tree. You could land on your head or fall with more force than necessary. You want to try to sit as much as possible during the fall so you don’t fall as far. To practice, stand with your arms straight in front of you. Bend your knees as if you’re trying to sit on your heels and fall backward. Once your back hits the mat, slap.

Learn how to do forward rolls on our website!

Safe, Systematic Instruction! Martial Arts in Ann Arbor

We're not a fighting dojo, we're a learning dojo! When you train at JMAC, you can have peace of mind that it’s a safe environment where we listen to you and assess your skills before putting you in more challenging activities.

Receiving an injury is unlikely, but never impossible. That’s why we train safely and systematically. We can proudly say we’ve never had a serious injury! 

To start practicing martial arts in Ann Arbor, contact us today!

Ukemi Basics

Are you a beginner? Considering martial arts training?

You’ll learn the basics first, which include stances, punches, and falling correctly.

The art of falling in martial arts is called ukemi and there are many types of falls.

The Basics:

When falling, it’s important to prevent a head injury. To prevent injury, keep your chin tucked to your chest and focus on something in front of you, like your belt knot. If your eyes are unfocused, you might rock your head during the fall. As soon as your back hits the mat, slap the mat with your arms from shoulder to fingertip. Keep your arms positioned in a “v” shape when you do this rather than holding your arms out straight like a plus sign. When your arms are straight, your head tends to go back. Keep your legs uniform as one unit.

Learn about basic beginner falls on our website!

Safe, Systematic Instruction! Martial Arts in Ann Arbor

We're not a fighting dojo, we're a learning dojo! When you train at JMAC, you can have peace of mind that it’s a safe environment where we listen to you and assess your skills before putting you in more challenging activities.

Receiving an injury is unlikely, but never impossible. That’s why we train safely and systematically. We can proudly say we’ve never had a serious injury! 

To start practicing martial arts in Ann Arbor, contact us today!

The Colors of Gi

Have you ever wondered why some opponents in martial arts wear blue or white Gi? 

Do you think the color of a martial artist's Judogi coordinates with their skill level? 

The reason for having two colors in a competition is so simple yet controversial.

Why the Blue? 

Originally, the judogi was white to symbolize purity. Before the introduction of the blue Gi in 1986, a competitor would wear a red sash on their belt to distinguish the two competitors. Only having a red sash on the uniform made it hard for the judges, referees, and the audience to tell apart the two opponents apart. To help tell the two opponents apart, the blue Gi was born. Despite the color difference, blue is only intended to distinguish between competitors. 

The Conspiracy 

Despite the blue Gi only being used for contrast, people believed there was more to it than that. During the 2004 Olympics, the opponents who wore blue Gi appeared to outperform those in white, leading people to believe blue gis had some sort of advantage. Members of the community also argued the Gi should remain “pure” and only the traditional white should be an authorized uniform.

Because of this controversy, several studies were done to see if color had a psychological effect on the competition. To this day there’s no evidence showing a correlation between color and performance.

Learn more about the history of the gi on our website!

Learn Martial Arts in Ann Arbor 

Are you interested in learning more about martial arts? With JMAC classes, you will feel a sense of community in the dojo. All you have to do is show up!

Contact us today to begin your journey with martial arts in Ann Arbor. 

Understanding Where the Gi started

Do you ever wonder why you’re required to wear certain attire in martial arts?

Knowing the history allows you to have a deeper connection and understanding of the martial arts you practice. 

The Conception of the Judogi

Origin - The Gi was invented by Jigoro Kano Sensei. While Kano was practicing judo, he realized the traditional Japanese kimono was not suitable for practice. After realizing this, he made alterations, such as making the material thicker to allow better anchorage while fighting as well as loosening the fit for better grappling.

Evolution - As time progressed, changes continued to be made to the Gi. Originally only produced in white, the International Judo Federation (IJF) allowed the Gi to be made in blue as well so judges, referees, and the audience could better differentiate the competitors. In addition to color, long sleeves became the “traditional cut” the Gi is now known for.

Standardization - After the design was altered, rules and regulations were set in place. The IJF set rules and guidelines on material specifications, manufacturing, and sizing of the Judogi. To ensure conformity to the rules, a red label is required on the Gi to show compliance. 

Learn more about the Gi on our website!

Learning Martial Arts in Ann Arbor 

If you think martial arts might be for you, come down to our dojo and feel a sense of community. No matter where you’re at in your fitness journey, we’ll make it work! Contact us today to begin your journey with martial arts in Ann Arbor.

Martial Arts Can Keep Older People Fit

Do you want to improve your fitness?

Martial arts training can help older people stay in shape. Older people can sometimes settle into a sedentary lifestyle. A body in rest tends to stay in rest, while a body in motion tends to stay in motion! Martial arts training can help keep you moving and improve your balance, flexibility, and reflexes. You don’t have to choose a physically demanding style like jujutsu to get these health benefits! Slow, precise styles like iaido can keep you moving and help you gain more control of your body while being easier on the cardiovascular system.

Learn more about how martial arts in Ann Arbor can benefit older people.

Martial Arts in Ann Arbor Has No Age Limit!

You’re never too old to try something new!

At JMAC, we’ll figure out your current fitness level and help you learn while gradually improving your fitness. You’ll be trained in a safe systematic way to prevent injuries and never have to do anything you don’t feel ready for.

If you’re interested in martial arts in Ann Arbor, we’d love to have you come watch a class. Call us at (734)645-6441 or fill out our contact form to schedule a visit! 

Why Older People Should Study Martial Arts

When you think of martial arts, you may imagine a dojo full of men in their 20s-30s. This isn’t the case! There are plenty of women and older people who study martial arts. Preconceived notions like this might inhibit older people from beginning martial arts training. 

Here are some reasons you should start!

Good for mental health – Exercise creates endorphins that can boost your mood and relieve stress. Learning new moves and skills can help keep your brain sharp and raise your self-esteem!

Good for personal development – You may have built your life, career, and family, but that doesn’t mean you’re done! You can always create new goals and build yourself up. Martial arts can help you become more mindful, focused, and a better version of yourself!

Learn more reasons you should start learning martial arts in Ann Arbor!

Martial Arts in Ann Arbor Has No Age Limit!

You’re never too old to try something new!

At JMAC, we’ll figure out your current fitness level and help you learn while gradually improving your fitness. You’ll be trained in a safe systematic way to prevent injuries and never have to do anything you don’t feel ready for.

If you’re interested in martial arts in Ann Arbor, we’d love to have you come watch a class. Call us at (734)645-6441 or fill out our contact form to schedule a visit! 

How to be a Great Training Partner

A dojo is more than a training room. It’s a commitment by everyone who trains there to create a safe, respectful space. Training with a partner is a great way to achieve that – at JMAC, we thrive together. 

When training with a partner, remember to be respectful. There are many ways to show respect in the dojo. Practice good personal hygiene and always wear a clean uniform. Be present and pay attention to your partner, their needs, and your sensei. How we present ourselves reflects our respect for our instructor, classmates, dojo, and culture.  

Learn more about being a great training partner through martial arts in Ann Arbor!

Positive, Supportive Martial Arts in Ann Arbor

Visit JMAC and experience our supportive environment for yourself. Contact us or call 734-720-0330 to watch a class or to take a free introductory lesson. Then, if you’d like to join us in focused, supportive martial arts in Ann Arbor, we’ll start you down a path of positive change that will impact your life and mindset in ways you never expected!

How to Create a Supportive Dojo

Your dojo is more than a place to get a great workout. It’s a safe, respectful place to learn and thrive together – a place where character is developed and strengthened. But that doesn’t come from the uniform or the mat. It comes from the people, and everyone at the dojo plays a part. 

Whether you are young or not so young, new to martial arts or an instructor, you can be a positive and supportive force in your dojo. 

One way you can make a positive impact is when you’re training with a partner. Being the best training partner not only helps your partner, but is an important stage in your own development. 

Learn more about being a great training partner through martial arts in Ann Arbor!

Positive, Supportive Martial Arts in Ann Arbor

Visit JMAC and experience our supportive environment for yourself. Contact us or call 734-720-0330 to watch a class or to take a free introductory lesson. Then, if you’d like to join us in focused, supportive martial arts in Ann Arbor, we’ll start you down a path of positive change that will impact your life and mindset in ways you never expected!

Increase Your Focus with Martial Arts

Do you have an attention disorder?

Would you like to improve your focus and find an uplifting community?

Here are some ways martial arts can help:

Improving Focus – Martial arts techniques are taught in small chunks over a long period, so you can focus on mastering one technique before moving on to the next. The moves are intricate, requiring concentration and patience to perfect.

Reaching Goals – Unlike team sports, practicing martial arts is an individual journey. All you have to focus on is your performance and growth. It also helps when you have something to work towards! The colored belts act as goals and rewards for your work.

Creating Community – People with ADHD may feel left out. At JMAC, we’re a community who can lift you up! Your success means the success of the entire dojo, so we’ll do everything we can to help you succeed and feel included.

Read more ways martial arts can help on our website!

Begin Martial Arts in Ann Arbor

Don’t know which martial art is right for you?

Watch a class with no obligation! At JMAC, we practice karate, judo, Nihon jujutsu, and iaido. See our schedule to watch a class. If you like what you see, you can schedule two free intro lessons!

To start studying martial arts in Ann Arbor, contact JMAC today!

How can Martial Arts Help with Attention Disorders?

Do you want to improve your focus, control, and concentration?

Would more structured activities help your attention disorder?

Martial arts may be able to help! While many resources for ADHD and other attention disorders may be targeted towards children, martial arts can help adults and children alike!

Here are some ways martial arts can help you:

Increasing Activity – Exercise not only helps express hyperactive energy, but boosts motivation, lowers impulsiveness, and improves memory.

Creating a Routine – The dojo is a structured environment where you repeat key activities. Every class starts with a bow, warm ups and basics. After learning and practicing the day’s techniques, we bow to end class. This structure can be comforting to someone who may have a hard time setting routines and organizing themselves.

See other ways martial arts can help those with attention disorders!

Begin Martial Arts in Ann Arbor

Don’t know which martial art is right for you?

Watch a class with no obligation! At JMAC, we practice karate, judo, Nihon jujutsu, and iaido. See our schedule to watch a class. If you like what you see, you can schedule two free intro lessons!

To start studying martial arts in Ann Arbor, contact JMAC today!

What are Internal Martial Arts?

Internal martial arts focus more on breathing, ki/chi (Japanese and Chinese terms for energy), flow, and relaxation. Examples include Tai chi, Bagua, Hsing-i, Kyudo, and Iaido. One important goal of internal martial artists is to find relaxation and mental strength. After you make progress with those, you can enter more physically demanding situations. The work you do internally will contribute to the external result, such as in the case of Kyudo and Iaido, a more precise shot or fluid strike.

See how to categorize martial arts.

Study Martial Arts in Ann Arbor

When you study martial arts in Ann Arbor at JMAC, there are multiple styles to learn! We offer iaido, nihon jujutsu, judo, and karate programs.

Not sure which art is right for you? 

You can watch a class with no obligation! See our schedule. If you’re happy with what you see, you can schedule two free intro lessons to make sure your choice is a good fit.

Contact us today to begin practicing martial arts in Ann Arbor!

How to Categorize Martial Arts

Have you noticed some martial arts are physical and powerful, while others seem peaceful and introspective?

How can these differences between martial arts be categorized?

One way is to distinguish between internal and external, or hard and soft styles. The distinction between internal and external comes from how the arts are learned, while the distinction from hard and soft comes from the fighting approach.

External Martial Arts

External martial arts include judo, karate, Muay Thai, and Hungar kung fu. These arts are typically more concerned with developing athletic skill sets - movements that rely on muscular strength, cardiovascular fitness, and explosive power. When learning external martial arts, you’ll likely improve your physical fitness first, and after reaching your physical limit, focus on internal elements that can improve your physical performance, like breathing and relaxation. External martial arts often have you learn movements first, then their meaning/purpose. Think of it this way: you’re learning the art from the outside (your body) to the inside (your spirit).

Learn more about internal, soft, and hard martial arts.

Study Martial Arts in Ann Arbor

When you study martial arts in Ann Arbor at JMAC, there are multiple styles to learn! We offer iaido, nihon jujutsu, judo, and karate programs.

Not sure which art is right for you? 

You can watch a class with no obligation! See our schedule. If you’re happy with what you see, you can schedule two free intro lessons to make sure your choice is a good fit.

Contact us today to begin practicing martial arts in Ann Arbor!

Learn the Features of an Iaito

Looking for an iaito?

Want to learn the individual parts of the sword?

Here are features you’ll want to examine and definitions you should know:

Sword composition – Along the blade, a bohi (groove) is ideal to create the whooshing sound when the blade is aligned correctly. Some blades have a double bohi, but a single, deep bohi is better. The hamon (temper line), is only decorative on alloy iaito – it doesn’t contribute to performance, so the style is a matter of your personal preference. 

Hand Guard – A smooth, round, heavy tsuba (hand guard) is recommended. A heavy tsuba helps bring the weight of the sword closer to your hands. With a lighter tsuba, the kissaki (sword tip) will be heavier, causing the sword to be harder to control. Try to get a tsuba free of corners or textures because they’re hard on the hands.

Scabbard – Make sure your saya (scabbard) has a wooden opening rather than a metal one. A metal saya will scratch your sword and shorten its life.  

Learn more about iaito swords.

Study Iaido in Ann Arbor

Anyone can practice iaido! It may seem intimidating, but at JMAC, we adapt to the pace of our students. You’ll learn how to handle a sword at your own pace in a safe, supportive environment.

Contact us today to begin practicing iaido in Ann Arbor!

What Makes a Great Practice Sword?

Are you interested in practicing iaido in Ann Arbor?

A little lost when it comes to swords?

We practice Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu iaido at JMAC, and there are many factors that make for a good practice sword -called an iaito- for this style:

Sword Material – Consider an alloy blade, as they tend to have a better feel than steel, which has good feel only in very expensive iaito.

Sword Length – Japanese swords are typically measured in the ancient system of shaku, sun, bu - roughly equal to a foot, an inch, and a centimeter. A typical iaito for our practice is between 2-shaku 3-sun (27.4 inches) and 2-shaku 4-sun 5-bu (29.2 inches). To find the best blade length for you, hold your right arm out straight and to the side, parallel to the floor. The length of your blade should be about the distance from the center of your sternum to the center of your right palm. 

Learn what other factors make a great sword!

Study Iaido in Ann Arbor

Anyone can practice iaido! It may seem intimidating, but at JMAC, we adapt to the pace of our students. You’ll learn how to handle a sword at your own pace in a safe, supportive environment.

Contact us today to begin practicing iaido in Ann Arbor!

What is Dan Ranking?

How can you keep improving beyond black belt?

After receiving all your colored belts and moving on to a black belt, you leave the kyu class and enter the dan class.

Dan Ranking

Dan means “step” or “stage” in Japanese. When you first receive a black belt, you are at shodan - first dan - rank. 

Shodan - 1st Dan

Nidan - 2nd Dan

Sandan - 3rd Dan

Yondan - 4th Dan

Godan - 5th Dan

Rokudan - 6th Dan

Shichidan - 7th Dan

Hachidan - 8th Dan

Kudan - 9th Dan

Judan - 10th Dan

Not all martial arts use all 10 dan, and for some arts, the belts might change. For most martial arts, black belts are worn for all dan rankings, but in judo, 6th-8th dan may wear a red and white belt and 9th-10th dan may wear a solid red belt. 

What do the different dans mean? If you’ve received shodan rank, you’ve mastered the basics of the style. At sandan, you can start teaching with your sensei’s supervision. At godan, you can get your full teaching license. The higher the dan, the more leadership and teaching experience you’ll need to be promoted.

Learn more about the ranking system.

Measure Your Growth - Martial Arts in Ann Arbor

Do you want to increase your strength, speed, and balance while working toward new belts?

Practicing martial arts in Ann Arbor has many non-physical benefits too! You will increase your confidence, focus, and self-discipline, all while having fun.

If you’re ready to get started, contact us today!

Why Are Colored Belts Used in Martial Arts?

Wondering what belt colors mean?

The majority of martial arts use a colored belt system to show your rank. It wasn’t always like this though. In 1883, judo founder Jigoro Kano founded the dan system which had students wear white belts and teachers and advanced students wear black belts. This system was adopted by numerous other martial art styles across different countries.

The colored belts came along when judo master Kawaishi Mikonosuke was teaching in France. Mikonosuke found multiple colored belts helped his students see their progress and gave them something to work toward. 

The exact order and number of belt colors depends on martial art or school. The general color order is:

• White
• Yellow
• Orange
• Green
• Blue
• Purple
• Brown
• Red
• Black

Learn more about the history behind the dan system.

Measure Your Growth - Martial Arts in Ann Arbor

Do you want to increase your strength, speed, and balance while working toward new belts?

Practicing martial arts in Ann Arbor has many non-physical benefits too! You will increase your confidence, focus, and self-discipline, all while having fun.

If you’re ready to get started, contact us today!

What is Kumite?

Kumite means “sparring.” When you and another martial artist go up against each other to gain experience and test your skill, that’s Kumite. Kumite includes both free practice and structured fighting drills. Structured kumite includes drills like Ippon kumite – where one person steps in for a high punch and the other responds with a high block. 

Free practice kumite in Goju-Ryu karate isn’t about matching strength or overpowering your opponent - rather it’s about deflecting the attack intelligently. Because Goju-Ryu uses hard and soft techniques, you can meet your opponent’s attack, whether it be hard or soft, with the opposite. You can wear protective gear so you can strike with power rather than holding back. Free practice Kumite is also used in competitions. See kumite in action!

Read about kata and kihon.

Call or Email JMAC Today for Karate in Ann Arbor

“JMAC changed my life! The instructors are incredible - both as teachers and as people. Other students are supportive and fun. I couldn't ask for a better training atmosphere.” 

If you’d like to start studying karate in Ann Arbor, fill out our contact form or give us a call at (734) 720-0330 today.

How is Karate Training Broken Up?

Want to study karate in Ann Arbor?

What can you expect to learn?

Everything you’ll learn in karate can be sorted into three categories: kihon, kata, and kumite. 

Kihon

Kihon means “basics,” or “fundamentals,” and includes stances, strikes, punches, kicks, and blocks. These are fundamental to your success as a martial artist. By repeating these elements, you’ll learn correct body posture, breathing techniques, and build balance, stability, and concentration. Kihon also helps foster the correct spirit and attitude you’ll need to succeed. When you start karate, this is what you’ll begin learning, but Kihon training never ends! All martial artists practice elements of kihon while training. Advanced martial artists will often return to the basics to see how they can improve, in fact, it’s often said that “there are no such things as advanced techniques, only basic techniques done in different applications.”

Read about kata and kumite!

Call or Email JMAC Today for Karate in Ann Arbor

“JMAC changed my life! The instructors are incredible - both as teachers and as people. Other students are supportive and fun. I couldn't ask for a better training atmosphere.” 

If you’d like to start studying karate in Ann Arbor, fill out our contact form or give us a call at (734) 720-0330 today.

How Can Martial Arts Help with Mental Health?

Do you want to relieve your stress and anxiety?

Martial arts training benefits your mind, body, and soul, and can improve your mental health. For some, it boils down to a change in perspective. Before beginning training, you might view yourself a certain way. After starting training, you’ll find you’re much stronger and resilient than you imagined! By feeling more confident and in comfortable in your abilities, you may notice a positive change in your mental headspace. 

Empower Yourself Through Martial Arts in Ann Arbor

Martial arts can help your mental health by empowering you. Martial arts can help you become physically and mentally strong, which can help you challenge any feelings of powerlessness or inadequacy. You can be fearless, ready to take on anything that comes your way. This empowerment can also help you process lingering trauma. By increasing your confidence, you can remove your insecurities and learn to love yourself more.

Reduce Your Stress and Anxiety

Exercise in general can also help your mental health. Exercise has been shown to help those with depression because adding it to your daily routine can help you become more motivated. It also produces endorphins - mood boosting chemicals – that can lift your mood and can help with depression. Physical exercise can help you relieve muscle tension, which can contribute to anxiety, and it can divert your attention from anxious thoughts. Martial arts are especially effective for relieving stress due to their focus on breathing, meditation, and mindfulness.

See other ways martial arts can help you.

Get Started with Martial Arts in Ann Arbor

Contact JMAC today to begin practicing martial arts in Ann Arbor.

What to Expect When Beginning Martial Arts

Thinking about starting martial arts in Ann Arbor?

Don’t know what to expect?

Starting something new can make you feel uncertain and intimidated. This might be the case for new martial artists. You may feel intimidated by your talented sensei and dojo mates who will know more than you. New martial artists who succeed learn to work through this uncertainty and discomfort to become great at their craft. It’s easier than you think! All you have to do is show up to practice and be receptive.

You Don’t Have to be Unsure of Yourself When You Practice Martial arts in Ann Arbor

When beginning martial arts, you might feel unsure of yourself. Martial arts are different than other physical activities because they come from a completely different culture. Not only do you have to learn the martial art you’ve chosen, but some words in Japanese, dojo manners, and traditional customs. It’s a whole new world! This could overwhelm you and make you feel self-conscious.

You may also be unsure about your physical ability. Martial arts may seem like they are only meant for fit, young people. If you don’t fit the bill, you may think you’ll be out of place. Perfectionism is also a common struggle. If you’re not good at your martial art immediately, it may be tempting to give up.

All great martial artists have been in your shoes. The only difference is that they stuck it out and worked through their discomfort. Over time, they got the hang of the warm ups, the practice routines, and dojo culture. They listened and applied critiques from their sensei. They attended class regularly and got stronger. They didn’t compare themselves to others – only focused on their own personal goals. Overall, the key to being a successful martial artist hinges on your desire to grow and live into your potential, no matter how uncomfortable that may be at first.

See what else to expect on our website.

Ready to begin?

Contact JMAC today to begin practicing martial arts in Ann Arbor.

Who Created Seisan Kata?

Are you a martial artist who wonders where kata comes from?

Or where it comes from?

Seisan kata can be traced back to Okinawan karate, which actually originated in China. During this time, many martial artists were traveling to China and bringing back new and different moves to Japan, so it’s unclear who exactly created Seisan kata. This form was also practiced by all three style of Okinawan karate – Shuri-te, Tomari-te, and Naha-te. Each style credited the kata to a different person. As time went on, the exact moves of the Seisan kata became different for each style of karate, so it’s also unclear which version of Seisan kata is the original.

Seisan kata is difficult and meant for more advanced students, sometimes being taught at the black belt level. Many modern styles of karate use Seisan kata, such as:

• Goju Ryu
• Wado Ryu
• Seidokan
• Uechi Ryu & more

Learn more about Seisan kata.

Learn Seisan Kata with Goju Ryu Karate in Ann Arbor

Start your karate journey at JMAC!

You’ll learn Goju Ryu Karate that will help you improve your concentration and create more orderly thinking, as well as help you develop social mindedness and feel a sense of community in the dojo.

Don’t worry if you’re not in shape right now. Our program is systematic and will help you build fitness as you progress. All you have to do is attend class! If you stick with it, you can move through the ranks and eventually learn Seisan kata yourself!

To begin practicing karate in Ann Arbor, contact us today!

What is Seisan Kata?

Are you a beginning martial artist?

Looking for a goal to achieve?

Work towards learning one of the oldest katas – Seisan kata!

Kata means “form” in Japanese. In martial arts, a kata is a set of choreographed movements used for practice. Seisan kata is a type of kata with its own distinct movements and is one of the oldest kata that is still taught today. Its history can be traced back to Okinawan karate in the 18-19th century.

The way “seisan” is written in Kanji can translate to the number 13, which is a lucky number, or as “10 hands and 3,” referring to Seisan’s 10 fighting sequences that are usually repeated 3 times. Seisan has a range of techniques, consisting of punches, kicks, locks, throws, and strikes. The sequences of Seisan kata flow together like a musical composition. There are slow, melodic segments that allow you to reflect and fast intense moments that challenge you.

Learn more about Seisan kata. 

Learn Seisan Kata with Goju Ryu Karate in Ann Arbor

Start your karate journey at JMAC!

You’ll learn Goju Ryu Karate that will help you improve your concentration and create more orderly thinking, as well as help you develop social mindedness and feel a sense of community in the dojo.

To begin practicing karate in Ann Arbor, contact us today!