Kata not just skin deep
In the modern day karate is often seen as a sport, Sensei Frik Willemse believes that while he does not deny many people participate in karate for its sporting applications, he feels that there is more to Karate then meets the eye.
The war-cry of veteran warriors on the battlefield would often be the defining factor in striking fear into the hearts of their enemies.
Similarly, the cry of ‘Osu!’ from a karate disciple should strike fear into any attacker. The shout is filled with the passion, strength and courage of the disciple.
In the modern day karate is often seen as a sport, Sensei Frik Willemse believes that while he does not deny many people participate in karate for its sporting applications, he feels that there is more to Karate then meets the eye.
“Karate is a subject that can be studied for years on end. I began in 1983 and I’m still learning,” he explained.
Sensei Willemse recently returned from Japan, where he studied Okinawan Karate, believed to have been the first form of karate. Many people believe karate started in Japan, but history shows it developed in Okinawa, which at the time did not form part of the Japanese empire.
According to Sensei Willemse, this form of karate is not as widespread as Japanese karate, but contains a wider variety of training styles compared to its Japanese counterpart.
“Each form of karate is excellent! Each concentrates on aspects. For example, the karate I teach, Shonrinyu karate often deals with weapon use, which is different from its Japanese counterpart, which concentrates closely on the strikes using the legs and hands.”
Many people believe that there is a spiritual aspect to karate, but this Fifth Dan Black Belt explained this to be a bit of a misconception.
“Karate is a way of life. It helps you become disciplined, allows you to control your anger, and even develops your manners. Karate gives you the skills you need to reflect on your actions, and of those around you, and many people use these skills to focus and meditate, to reflect on life, but this meditation is not a necessity of karate. Contrary to popular belief, karate did not form Buddhism”
When asked what brought about his love for karate, he laughed and blamed it on Bruce Lee movies.
He did not deny that there were dangers to practising karate, and karateka often went home bruised and battered, but reminded of the fact that they were learning a self defence fighting art.
One of his senior karateka, and First Dan Black Belt, Zarina Khan believed karate has enriched her life.
“It gives you confidence, boosts your self esteem, and builds your body physically. Karate has definitely improved my life for the better.”
For Sensei Willemse, seeing a student like Ms Khan taking to karate so naturally, while understanding it is not always about winning the biggest trophy, is one of the best achievements as a teacher.
“I want my students to feel the same love for karate that I developed. At first it had always been about throwing the best punch, but now as I have matured with the art, I have learnt so much more,” he concluded.
