Blog

You may have heard the phrase ‘Sensei’ or ‘Senpai’ in the dojo, so what do these Japanese phrases mean?  Sensei (先生) (pronounced sen-say), translates as “one who gone before”.  Typically used when referring to teachers, from school, university and al...

At Red Eagle Martial Arts we practise and learn the karate style Wadō-ryū (和道流).  This is one of the four major karate styles and was founded by Hironori Ohtsuka (1892–1982) in 1938.  The four major karate styles are Shotokan, Wadō-Ryū, Shito-Ryu, and Goju-R...

Upton-Upon-Severn CofE Primary SchoolSchool LaneWR8 0LD Monday18:00 - 18:45 (Children) 19:00 - 20:00 (Adults)

Gloucester Road Primary SchoolGloucester RoadCheltenhamGL51 8PB Tuesday 17:30 - 18:15 (Children)18:25 - 19:50 (Adults)

The uniform we wear is called a Gi (pronounced ghee), it’s a traditional training uniform worn when practising karate and other martial arts.  They’re designed to provide comfort, and full range of motion when executing techniques. Traditionalists often refer to them as Dogi or Kei...

There are many benefits to karate training, the one I'm going to concentrate on today is 'Focus'. The ability to switch off from everything else and concentrate solely on one thing.  Not focusing completely and allowing other thoughts to come into your mind (did I send that email, what do I ne...

Kata is a term used in martial arts which refers to a structured routine consisting of different techniques and stances.  It’s a methodology that uses repeated and consistent practice, teaching us how to perform movements by creating habits, allowing us to move without conscious thought. ...

I’m sure you’ve heard karateka and martial arts ‘yelling’ during their kata and fighting.  It’s known as a ‘Kiai’, which is a Japanese term used for the sound uttered when executing a technique or move.  The words are a combination of Ki – li...

Our brain is an amazing organ, whilst it isn’t an actual muscle we’re told to treat it like one and exercise it, along with the rest of our body, to keep it healthy and functioning at its best.  So, what can we do to train our brain to focus? Set a clear plan, clarify what it is yo...

So, you’ve become a black belt, what next?  A black belt is known as Sho-dan, literally ‘first level’.  It’s the beginning of your life long study in karate and martial arts.  It’s an achievement that you should be proud of, however nothing changes.&nbsp...

Yes, is the short answer.  As a woman who has been training for over 25 years, and achieved 4th Dan in 2020, I can confidently say that learning karate has been one of the best sports and exercise I’ve done. There are various reasons why any of us start learning a new skill, you may want...

Loads!  We all know the benefits gained from exercise, physically, mentally and emotionally.  Children gain the same benefits, from burning up energy to socialising with a different group; being part of a karate club offers all these plus many more. Personal development and social interac...

Kata is a set series of moves, involving different techniques and stances.  Within the traditional Wado Ryu karate style there are 15 kata’s that are practised in most schools.  Kata allows us to practise fundamental techniques and stances, as well improving our physical conditioning...

Do I need previous martial arts experience? No.  Everyone is welcome, whether you have previous experience of Wado Ryu or not.  You just need to be willing to learn and practise. Do I have to be sporty and fit? No.  You will gain many fitness benefits during your training however i...

One of the benefits I’ve gained from my martial arts is learning the ability to switch off from everything else and concentrate solely on my training.  It’s all absorbing and as you bow into the dojo you have to leave any problems at the door. Not focusing completely and allowing o...

I was very sporty at school and did most activities, I didn't really know much about karate so it wasn't on my list of things I wanted to do.  My younger brother decided he wanted to go as his friend was doing it, so my mum told me I had to go with him! I can still remember my first class, the...