Karate Books Part 4
Karate Kenpo: The Art of Self Defense by Mabuni Kenwa
One of the few books written by one of the “old masters” as they say. Mabuni Kenwa is known as the founder of Shitoryu Karate, of the well known “styles”. Although, Mabuni has this to say about styles, “There are no styles of karate-do, just varying interpretations of its principles.” At a time when Karate was becoming popular in Japan, each master was asked to name their style of Karate to fit in with the Japanese tradition of martial arts style names. Prior to this, all the Okinawan masters simply practiced Karate, with their own individual methods.
Written in 1934, this book gives a little history and philosophy on Karate, followed by some explanation of basic techniques along with illustrations. A detailed description of Sanchin follows with step by step instructions and illustrations. A large portion of this book is instructions on Se-Enchin kata, with llustrations and descriptions on performing the kata and two person practice of applications. This is one of the few examples of kata applications being clearly recorded by one of the old masters.
Enso Karate 