Koei-Kan Karate-Do Of San Luis Obispo
About
Koei-Kan Karate-Do is a traditional system of martial art, originating in Japan. Master Eizo Onishi founded it in 1954. His teacher, Master Kanken Toyama, suggested the name Koei-Kan to Onishi. The basic translation of Koei-Kan, happiness (ko), prosperity (ei), and hall or house (kan), implies its underlying philosophy: "prosper with happiness toward the future." The ultimate purpose of Koei-Kan Karate-Do, by means of combative training and discipline, is to cultivate character. Koei-Kan is devoted to developing the spirit, and encourages the individual to find success and fulfillment.
A traditional martial art such as Koei-Kan is distinguished from other disciplines in many respects. Primary among these is its reliance upon ancient and authentic teaching methods, accrued and perfected over generations. The physical discipline, the art of karate-do, also retains an underlying philosophy, which can be characterized in a few ideas. A true martial art is foremost a defensive discipline: karate ni sente nashi (in karate there is no first attack). In the course of honing combative skills, one also learns to discover and develop the state of mushin, no-mindedness, a flowing, open state of awareness. Therein one holds no preconceptions, and acts spontaneously, both during combat and ultimately in life as a whole. This is exemplified in the meaning of the term "karate", empty (kara) - hand (te), which not only signifies a hand free of weapons but also a mind free of distraction.
The means of instruction in Koei-Kan are also traditional. All students start from the beginning. The practice and application of karate is built on a foundation of fundamentals. Instruction encompasses a wide range of fighting skills built upon this foundation, refined through continual repetition and practice. Japanese terminology is employed, and students are expected to pay heed to proper form and etiquette. Students are also required to retain a basic knowledge of the history of karate as well as the origins of Koei-Kan.
Rank advancement is based on merit. Testing students are expected to execute proper form, as well as understanding basic terminology and principles appropriate to their rank. Koei-Kan's belt-ranking system comprises an intermediate-beginner's belt (shichi-kyu), then three levels of green-belt, three levels of brown-belt, until one achieves black-belt. A dedicated student can earn a black belt within about five years.
Teaching Karate provides me the opportunity to help students learn self-defense skills, develop physical conditioning, and build character. I have practiced my art for more than twenty years, and have been a teaching black belt for more than fifteen years. Currently a fourth degree black belt, I am chief instructor of Koei Kan Karate Do in San Luis Obispo. I teach both kids and adults. It is my continuing passion.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Two free lessons are offered to prospective students. After that, it's entirely up to the student. Consistent training over an extended period reaps manifold rewards.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Twenty-five+ years of continuous training and practice, under the tutelage of a master instructor.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$120 monthly for unlimited access to the dojo, with available discount rate. $100 initiation fee upon joining. Occasional fees for tests and special programs.
How did you get started teaching?
Once I joined the system, I progressed through the ranks. I am a fifth-degree black belt. I have a gift for teaching, making the difficult and challenging comprehensible. We have several other black belt instructors as well
What types of students have you worked with?
Children and adults from all walks of life. The only requirement is the willingness to try and to learn.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Friendliness and patience, combined with an uncompromising attitude respecting the meaning of budo -- the martial way.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The only bad question is the one not asked.