Silkisondan Karate Training (Draft)

I would like to formally address the traditional framework by which a classical karate class is conducted. This structure reflects the core principles of Silkisondan Karate, which place primary emphasis on the cultivation of character, intellectual development, self-control, and disciplined conduct. This system is not designed for sport competition nor for fitness alone, but for the comprehensive development of the individual.

The Silkisondan Karate system is presently overseen by three senior masters: Master Ron Profitt, Master Rusty Burke, and Master Kha Nguyen. Each has received extensive training under my direct guidance. Their character, dedication, and commitment to the art of karate are of the highest standard. I have complete confidence in their leadership and judgment, and I am assured that they will faithfully preserve the integrity of our system while continuing to refine and adapt it responsibly in response to an evolving environment.

Here are the Silkisondan karate training guidelines.

Opening Formalities (5 minutes)

• Purpose: Set mindset, respect, and focus.
• Line up by rank (seniority matters).
• Standing meditation (a few seconds)
• Brief silent meditation (a few seconds).
• Bow to teacher and dojo.
• Student’s oath

Key principle

The class begins before physical movement — it begins with the mind.

Warm-Up (10–15 minutes)

• Purpose: Prepare body safely and correctly.
• Traditional warm-ups are functional, not casual.
• Joint rotations (neck, shoulders, hips, knees, ankles).
• Light stretching (dynamic first, static later).
• Basic calisthenics:
  • Push-ups (often knuckle push-ups)
  • Sit-ups
  • Stretching
• Light stance work (horse stance, front stance).

Key principle

Warm-ups build discipline and structure, not exhaustion.

Basics (20–30 minutes)

• Purpose: Build foundation, power, and correctness.
• This is the heart of traditional karate.
• Structure:
  • Techniques practiced in place, then moving.
  • Emphasis on:
    • Stance
    • Posture
    • Hip rotation
    • Breathing
• Focus
• Examples:
  • Punches
  • Blocks
  • Kicks
• Often done:
  • Slowly first (combination of techniques)
  • Then faster (power)

Key principle

Correct basics create correct karate. No shortcuts.

Kata (15–25 minutes)

• Purpose: Preserve knowledge and develop internal understanding.
• Teaching approach:
  • Beginners: learn sequence and posture.
  • Intermediate: refine timing, transitions, breathing.
  • Advanced: study (applications) and intention.
• Instructor may:
  • Demonstrate once or twice only.
  • Expect students to observe carefully.
  • Correct individually, not constantly.

Key principle

Kata is a living textbook, not a performance.

Sparring (Partner Training) 15–25 minutes

• Purpose: Apply technique with control and respect.
• Traditional progression:
  • Pre-arranged)
    • One-step sparring
    • Three-step sparring (optional)
• Free sparring
  • Emphasis on timing and distance
  • Control over contact
• Advanced applications
  • Self-defense
  • Multiple attackers
  • Scenario-based training

Key principle

The goal is mastery, not dominance.

Conditioning (Optional) 5–10 minutes

• Purpose: Strengthen body for real technique.
• Traditional tools may include:
  • Resistance drills
  • Grip strengthening
  • Stance endurance

Key principle

Conditioning serves technique — not ego.

Closing Formalities (5 minutes)

• Purpose: Return to calm and respect.
  • Line up by rank.
  • Short teaching moment or reminder.
  • Cite student’s oath
  • Bow to the instructor and the top student before dismissal.

Key principle

Karate begins and ends with respect.

Teaching Philosophy (Most Important Part)

• Traditional karate is:
  • Not rushed
  • Not entertainment
  • Not just exercise
• A proper class emphasizes:
  • Character development
  • Patience
  • Humility
  • Responsibility
  • Consistency

“First, make a good person. Skill comes later.”