⚡ Key Principles in Karate (with short notes)

Maai (間合い) – Distance & Timing

The right distance between you and your opponent, and how to control it.

Crucial for both attack and defence.

Zanshin (残心) – Remaining Mind / Awareness

Staying alert before, during, and after a technique.

Never dropping your guard mentally or physically.

Kime (決め) – Focus / Power at Impact

The instant contraction and focus of mind, body, and spirit at the moment of a strike.

Kuzushi (崩し) – Breaking Balance

Taking your opponent’s balance through movement, angle, or timing.

Applies to throws, locks, and striking setups.

Sen (先) – Initiative

Different levels:

Sen no Sen – anticipating and striking as they begin.

Go no Sen – responding after their attack.

Sen Sen no Sen – reading intent and pre-empting before they even move.

Hikite (引き手) – Pulling Hand

More than tradition — it’s about balance, control, and feeling where your opponent is.

Kansetsu Waza (関節技) – Joint Principles

The mechanics behind locks and holds, why they work on human anatomy.

Shuhari (守破離) – Learning Progression

Shu = follow tradition.

Ha = break from tradition, explore.

Ri = transcend and create your own.

Mushin (無心) – No Mind

Calm focus, freedom from hesitation, acting without emotional interference.

Tai Sabaki (体捌き) – Body Management

Angles, evasions, and repositioning — blending attack with defence.