Karate is a martial art and a way of life that trains a practitioner to be peaceful; but if conflict is unavoidable, true karate dictates taking down an opponent with a single blow.

Such an action requires strength, speed, focus, control. But these physical aspects are only part of the practice; they are just the vehicle, not the journey itself.
   
True karate is based on Bushido. In true karate, the body, mind and spirit—the whole person—must be developed simultaneously. Through kihon, kumite and kata we learn to control our movements.

But more importantly, we learn to give up control too. We can perform the techniques without thinking about them, and remain focused without having to concentrate on any one thing. In essence, the body remembers how to move and the mind remembers how to be still..


The eleven mottos of the Kyokushin way.
Mas Oyama summed up his entire martial arts philosophy in eleven mottos, known as the Zayu no Mei Juichi Kajo, which are central to the teachings of Kyokushin Karate:

1. The Martial Way begins and ends with courtesy. Therefore, be properly and genuinely courteous at all times.

2. Following the Martial Way is like scaling a cliff – continue upwards without rest. It demands absolute and unfaltering devotion to the task at hand.

3. Strive to seize the initiative in all things, all the time guarding against actions stemming from selfish animosity or thoughtlessness.

4. Even for the Martial Artist, the place of money cannot be ignored. Yet one should be careful never to become attached to it.

5. The Martial Way is centered in posture. Strive to maintain correct posture at all times.

6. The Martial Way begins with one thousand days and is mastered after ten thousand days of training.

7. In the Martial Arts, introspection begets wisdom. Always see contemplation on your actions as an opportunity to improve.

8. The nature and purpose of the Martial Way is universal. All selfish desires should be roasted in the tempering fires of hard training.

9. The Martial Arts begin with a point and end in a circle. Straight lines stem from this principle.

10.The true essence of the Martial Way can only be realized through experience. Knowing this, learn never to fear its demands.

11. Always remember, in the Martial Arts, the rewards of a confident and grateful heart are truly abundant.