S E L F - D E F E N S E

In every martial art training facility, there is a specific belt order a student follows to eventually earn their black belt. In Shotokan karate specifically, there are eleven belts levels, each of which involve its own set of skills a student must master in order to pass the proceeding belt test; the higher the belt level, the harder the test.

Shotokan karate has taught me self-defense in that I know what to do in situations of threat. After earning each individual belt from white to black, I now have the skills and knowledge I need to defend myself. Sensei (or teacher) Andre Dulce, the head instructor of WSA, strongly enforces the Dojo Kun (or training facility creed) and expects all instructors to do the same. They are the five sayings that outline the expectations as to how one should act in and out of WSA. One of the lines in the Dojo Kun mentions to “Refrain from Violent Behavior,” in other words, “Don’t fight anyone unless you have no other choice.” One of the main things I’ve learned from karate is that it is almost never necessary to fight someone. The only time I can think of where it is appropriate to use violence on other people is if you’re defending yourself from danger. So, just because you can kick someone’s butt doesn’t mean you should.

Borrowed from google images.
               

Andre Dulce Black Belt Dojo Kun Do Your Best Sensei Show Spirit