Founded by a Legend
Kyokushin Karate was founded in 1964 by Masutatsu Oyama, a martial artist famous for his incredible strength and discipline.
The Name Has Meaning
“Kyokushin” translates to “The Ultimate Truth,” reflecting the philosophy of self-improvement, perseverance, and rigorous training.
Bull Fighting Expertise
Mas Oyama became legendary for fighting bulls barehanded, demonstrating his strength and skill. This earned him the nickname “The Godhand.”
Bare-Knuckle Fighting Style
Kyokushin is known for its bare-knuckle, full-contact fighting style. Punches to the face are prohibited, but kicks to the head are allowed.
The 100-Man Kumite
The ultimate test of Kyokushin endurance is the 100-man kumite, where a practitioner fights 100 opponents in succession, usually over several hours.
Global Reach
Kyokushin is one of the most widely practiced karate styles, with over 15 million practitioners.
Influence on Other Martial Arts
Kyokushin has inspired the development of other martial arts styles, including Seidokaikan, Enshin, and Ashihara Karate.
Focus on Real Combat
Kyokushin emphasizes practical techniques and conditioning, making it highly effective in real-world self-defense scenarios.
Training Includes Breaking Techniques
Practitioners often train to break boards, bricks, and even rocks to develop power and focus.
Rigorous Belt System
Kyokushin’s ranking system includes intense skill, endurance, and character tests, making earning a black belt a significant accomplishment.
The “Knockdown” Style
Kyokushin tournaments are famous for their knockdown karate rules, in which opponents aim to knock each other down with powerful strikes.
Mas Oyama Lived in Isolation
Mas Oyama spent 18 months training alone on Mount Minobu to perfect his art, practicing 12 hours a day and meditating under waterfalls.
Emphasis on Kata and Kumite
While known for its full-contact sparring, Kyokushin also values kata (forms) to develop technique, discipline, and mental focus.
Iconic Symbol
The Kyokushin kanji (calligraphy symbol) is instantly recognizable and signifies strength, humility, and the pursuit of excellence.
Breaking the Gender Barrier
From the start, Kyokushin has included women practitioners. Women compete in tournaments and earn high ranks.
Kyokushin in Pop Culture
Kyokushin has influenced many action movies and anime, with references in works like Fist of the North Star and The Karate Kid.
The “Osu” Spirit
Kyokushin practitioners use the term “Osu” to greet each other, express acknowledgment, and show respect. It embodies patience, determination, and appreciation.
Kickboxing Connection
Many top kickboxers, including those in K-1 tournaments, have roots in Kyokushin, showcasing the style’s effectiveness in professional combat sports.
A Karate Marathon
Kyokushin students sometimes participate in marathon-style training sessions lasting up to 12 hours, testing their stamina and mental fortitude.
Live Your Dojo Kun
Kyokushin emphasizes living by its Dojo Kun (training principles) and encourages daily respect, humility, and perseverance.
