|
| Sensei Doing a Front Snap Kick |
A couple of years ago, KTJW had its first upload on the Internet. And quite a load it was! Since then, I have done what was needed to refine the site, develop each area, and fine tune the language and content. The chapters of my book were complete. The deed was done. So, my book became a reality and came into print. All those chapters, and much more are available through book dealers near you and through Amazon, Chapters, and Barnes and Noble. If you are interested in what used to be on this site, or you think that the material might be of use to your students in your karate club, you are going to have to order the book.
What we have now on KTJW is the beginning of the next phase, the next step on the evolutionary ladder. The site is basically divided into three areas:
So what KTJW is really becoming is a place where visitors can come and see books developing before their very eyes. This is really great. Some material of course is ill-suited for future publication, but the Internet has provided an excellent test-reading area. In fact, in the development of KTJW, many editorial changes, fixes, and additions were made due to reader feedback. To regular visitors I am truly indebted.
But the mission of KTJW still remains the same. This site is dedicated to showing you what life is like in Japan, what karate training is like in Japan, and subjecting you to my ranting and raving from time to time.
I have lived in Japan for several years now and have trained in karate for more than that. I live in Ishikawa prefecture in Japan and have been practicing karate under Takao Taniguchi, my wonderful friend and teacher. Without his prompting, suggestions, guidance, teaching, and mentoring my first book would never have become a reality, and other writings would not have been begun without that initial success. It is like Sensei put a snowball on the top of a mountain and pushed it off. The work runs downhill, gathers momentum, gains in mass and density, and then I guess, wipes out the Scandinavian village below. Well, I guess that is not the greatest metaphor. I just wanted to say that Taniguchi-Sensei gave me a good push, and also that he isn't responsible for the untimely deaths of any Scandinavians.
This site is still a place where candid remarks about karate practice, issues, errors, abuses, benefits, and ideas are explored, pursued, and mused about whimsically. You may accept, reject, oppose, and respond to any and all at your leisure. And you are most welcome to respond to me by email. I am most courteous with those who are equally so. Drop me a line, ask your questions and make your comments. The best ones get used on my Letters Page.
Much of what you will find in this site is a combination of opinion, collaboration, interpretation, and theory. This work, like karate itself, is one which is in progress, incomplete, needing continual care, re-thinking, analysis, and daydreams.
Remember that karate can be dangerous and if you do attempt any technique or training method suggested or presented in these pages you may be injured. Before beginning any exercise program you had best consult with your doctor or family physician. Should you be injured or adversely affected in any way as a result of your individual karate training or exercise as a result of applying the instructions or advice given on this website the author of these pages accepts no responsibility or liability for your misfortunes or injury.
Karate is a marvelous thing. A tremendous contribution of Japan to the rest of the planet, and a gift that is continually developed and nurtured in the places where it has been translplanted. I wish you all the best in your karate training and hope that it is something that contributes to both your mental and physical betterment.
So, with that being said, welcome. Visit often. Thanks for coming by.
Mark Groenewold
mark@karatethejapaneseway.com