Tune in to Great Karate Myths: Debunking the Legends as we unravel the enigma of Ko-do Ryu! In this episode, co-host Nathan Johnson, the founder of Ko-do Ryu, shares its origins, tracing the name back to a conversation on a coach in Spain and its formalization between 2000 and 2004. Learn how the practice: "Ko-do To-Te", meaning "old way of China hand," alludes to the Chinese origins of the material and its focus on antique kata and pushing hands.

Discover the fascinating connection to Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo, and how Ko-do Ryu, much like Judo's development from Jiu-Jitsu, is a development of Chinese pushing hands and grappling. Nathan explains the innovative use of pushing hands as a form of randori for karate, enabling the application of kata techniques without prearrangement and leveraging superior contact reflexes.

Tom elaborates on Ko-do Ryu's core practice, which centers on understanding the original functions of antique kata inherited from China and Nathan's creative interpretations. He highlights the group's unique approach in seeking the original intentions and cultural context of these forms, rather than solely focusing on modern self-defense applications. This includes dismissing the assumption that all antique kata were for self-defense, opening up possibilities for other functions and martial skills.

Nathan also defines Ko-do Ryu's two "limbs," each with three branches:

Limb One:

1. Not intended for battlefield use.
2. Not designed for open use against professional warriors or trained opponents, though practice with skilled partners is necessary for proficiency.
3. Not intended for arena or sporting contests.

Limb Two:

1. Creates holistic fitness and acts as recreation.
2. Facilitates introspection, meditation, and spiritual cultivation (Standing or Moving Zen).
3. Facilitates effective confidence, character, and citizen building through rigorous, ritual combative experience aimed at individual improvement.

He summarizes Ko-do Ryu's value as:

1. A method of exercise and recreation.
2. A method of self-discipline and spiritual training.
3. A method of personal enablement and physical prowess development.

The discussion also touches on the evolution of research within the group, including Tom's extensive work on Kusanku, which he eventually unraveled as a method for disarming someone of a polearm, emphasizing restraint rather than ballistic strikes. This aligns with the philosophy of Matsumura Sokon, who emphasized "indomitable calmness" and forbidding "willful violence" in his 1882 instructions to a student.

Join us to delve into the rich history and profound philosophy of Ko-do Ryu, challenging conventional karate myths and revealing deeper insights into the antique forms. Don't miss this illuminating conversation!

Grab a seat in the dojo for Great Karate Myths: Debunking the Legends—it’s Question Time!

Our listeners dropped six awesome questions via socials, and we’re ready to kick them into high gear. Is the Sanchin Kata stance any good for armed fights if it flops in a street brawl? Are drunk pub brawlers scarier than knife-wielding pros? Why’s kata training cool for weapons but not bare knuckles? Plus, we’re spilling the tea on why katas take forever to master, how many you really need, and whether YouTube can teach you the moves. Our rotating crew of martial arts nerds brings the facts with a side of laughs, breaking down your questions with zero fluff. Tune in for a fun, no-holds-barred dive into karate’s wildest myths!

Hey there, martial arts fans! Great Karate Myths: Debunking the Legends is back with a must-hear Question Time episode! We’re diving into your top questions, including the big one: Can you really learn kata from a video? Our rotating crew of karate experts breaks it down, exploring whether online tutorials can teach the heart of these ancient forms. With six listener questions pulled from our socials, we’re tackling everything from the Sanchin Kata’s role in combat to the time it takes to master a kata. Expect clear insights, a bit of humor, and straight-up facts. Drop in this Tuesday on Spotify for a lively chat that uncovers the truth behind karate’s biggest myths. See you in the dojo!