In this video I discuss Consensual Violence (Fighting) vs. Non-Consensual Violence (Self-Defense). These are terms I coined to mark the difference between the natures, objectives and methodologies of criminal violence and duelling with other martial artists. They are very different, and we therefore need to be sure we approach them differently in training. This is not a matter of “good” vs. “bad”. This is a matter of appropriate vs. inappropriate.

“Karate ni Sente Nashi” (no 1st attack in karate) is undoubtedly one of the most misunderstood phrases in our art. Many take it to be a tactical instruction to always concede the initiative to the enemy by doing nothing until an assault is underway. To illustrate both the ridiculousness and immorality of this position, we can consider a teenage girl who has just been threatened with sexual assault. Are we really saying she is being immoral if she strikes before the assault begins in order to escape? I would hope not!

WARNING: This video contains footage of real world violence! This includes people getting struck, knocked out, and stabbed. This video should not be viewed by those under 18 or by those who are likely to find such images distressing.

In this video we look at bunkai for the motions surrounding the dropping ippon ken (single knuckle fist) in Nipaipo kata. Nipaipo translates as “28 Steps” and the kata was created by Kenwa Mabuni (1889 – 1952). It is said the kata is a summation of the instruction Mabuni received from Chinese martial artist Go Kenki (1886-1940).

Nipaipo is a very popular competition kata and it is aesthetically pleasing. However, it is important to appreciate that the kata was designed to encapsulate combative methods. Its real beauty is therefore in the application of its methods.