Budo Mindset - The Ultimate Lifestyle Destination
Exploring Beyond the Dojo
In this inspiring piece, Sensei Joe Hicks shares how stepping outside the familiar boundaries of his own dojo transformed his karate journey. Through chance encounters, seminars, and bold decisions to train with new people, Joe shows how connection and curiosity fuel growth in martial arts. A must-read for anyone looking to deepen their practice.
Breaking Out of the Ballet Box: A Mum’s Karate Journey
When Sally Reichardt stepped onto the dojo floor with her six-year-old son, she had no idea it would become one of the most enriching experiences of her adult life. From ballet-trained toes to battle stances, Sally shares her reflections on joining karate at 42—and finding a vibrant, inclusive community that continues to surprise, challenge, and inspire her.
The Journey So Far: From My First Steps to My Current Path.
Joe Hicks reflects on his personal journey in martial arts, starting from his early days in Shotokan karate to the pivotal moment when he decided to challenge himself by training for 365 days in 2025. This article shares his path through various martial arts, the challenges he's faced, and the lessons he's learned along the way. A true testament to perseverance and dedication in the pursuit of self-improvement.
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Karate and I
In this heartfelt piece, Miho Fujimori reflects on her journey into Karate, a path that began with her son's interest in the martial art and evolved into a shared family experience. Discover how Karate not only helped her reconnect with her cultural roots in Japan but also taught her valuable life lessons of respect, perseverance, and community.
In at the Deep End
In this heartfelt piece, Sensei Lee Phillips, takes us through his karate journey, from the early days of training with his brother to taking over a dojo and through a time of crisis. The article reflects on the growth, challenges, and the deep connections forged through martial arts, offering valuable insights on perseverance, family bonds, and the power of community.
✨ A Mother-Daughter Karate Journey ✨
From their first class to earning their gi’s, this mother-daughter duo shares how karate has shaped their lives. Read their story and learn how martial arts can boost confidence, mental clarity, and physical strength for all ages.
My Journey with Tanren Dojo
A powerful reflection from Rosie, one of Tanren Dojo’s dedicated students, on her seven-year journey—from childhood to black belt—and the confidence, community, and resilience she’s gained along the way.
Training Side by Side: A Mother-Daughter Story
At Tanren Dojo, karate is more than just a martial art — it’s a shared journey of growth, confidence, and connection. In this touching reflection, Jacqui and her 9-year-old daughter Eliza share what it’s meant to train together, grow together, and discover inner strength on and off the mat.
My Journey as a Mongrel 7th Dan – Part 1
After nearly 50 years in martial arts, my journey has been anything but straightforward. From the traditional lines of the KUGB to the political minefields of independent dojos, and from brutal kumite sessions to teaching kata on international stages, I’ve worn many belts—literally and metaphorically. This two-part article shares my personal story: the highs, the beatings, the setbacks, the politics, and the quiet triumphs. It’s a reflection on what it means to be a so-called "karate mongrel" in a world that often values pedigree over experience.
This is not a technical manual or a philosophical treatise. It’s simply my truth.
My Journey as a Mongrel 7th Dan – Part 2
After nearly 50 years in martial arts, my journey has been anything but straightforward. From the traditional lines of the KUGB to the political minefields of independent dojos, and from brutal kumite sessions to teaching kata on international stages, I’ve worn many belts—literally and metaphorically. This two-part article shares my personal story: the highs, the beatings, the setbacks, the politics, and the quiet triumphs. It’s a reflection on what it means to be a so-called "karate mongrel" in a world that often values pedigree over experience.
This is not a technical manual or a philosophical treatise. It’s simply my truth.
My Karate Journey
Karate has been a central part of my life for many years, shaping both my personal and professional growth. In this article, I share my journey from my first steps in martial arts to becoming a dedicated Karate-ka. It's a story of discovery, growth, and the lifelong learning that comes with practicing a martial art.
My Karate Journey: From Mom to Black Belt
What started as a simple trip to the dojo with my son turned into a life-changing journey. From the first hesitant steps on the mat to training through challenges like menopause and injury, karate has become my strength, my stress relief, and my second family. As I prepare for my 1st Dan black belt, I reflect on the incredible lessons, friendships, and resilience I’ve gained along the way.
Read my story and discover why karate is more than just a martial art—it’s a way of life.
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Martial Mindsets: Much More Than in the Dojo
The study of martial arts extends far beyond physical techniques; it is deeply rooted in mindset and mental discipline. In recent weeks, our training has focused intensely on the psychological aspects of combat—understanding how the right mindset can shape both performance and response in high-pressure situations.
This article explores the essential mental states of martial arts, known as The Five Spirits of Bu Ha, and other key concepts that influence not only combat but also life beyond the dojo.
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The Kata Cycle: A Tradition of Insight
For decades, our group has practiced the full kata cycle four times a year, aligning with the equinoxes and solstices. This winter, we took a new approach—reorganizing kata by their historical origins. What we uncovered was eye-opening!
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Finding Strength Through Karate
For one practitioner, karate was more than just a martial art—it was a lifeline. From a turbulent youth to recovery from anorexia, stepping back into the dojo became the key to reclaiming confidence, self-worth, and the ability to stand strong.
This powerful story showcases how karate can transform lives, build resilience, and empower individuals in ways they never imagined.
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My Karate Journey – By Sophia Bruce
Starting karate at just six years old, Sophia Bruce has faced every challenge with determination—from long training sessions and breaking old habits to pushing through lockdowns with Zoom lessons. In 2023, she stood alone in front of her Senseis, grading for her 1st Dan Shodan—an experience that tested her courage, strength, and perseverance.
Now, as she prepares for her 2nd Dan, Sophia shares her inspiring journey of hard work, resilience, and what it truly means to embrace the warrior spirit.
Read her story below. ⬇️
The Significance of Lineage in Martial Arts
Lineage is more than just a record of instructors and styles—it’s a vital link to the past that shapes the traditions, values, and continuity of martial arts. Understanding where we come from helps us maintain the integrity of our practice, just as ancient warriors once used lineage to establish identity, respect, and hierarchy. In this article, we explore why martial lineage matters and how it continues to influence the way we train today.
My Karate Journey
Earning a black belt at a young age is no small feat—but what happens when your first club holds you back? Poppy Young’s journey is one of resilience, passion, and finding the right dojo to grow. Her story is a reminder to all karateka, especially instructors, of the impact we have on young students. Read her inspiring journey here!
The Journey of a Karateka: Community, Growth, and the True Spirit of Karate
Karate is more than just punching and kicking—it’s about mindset, community, and continuous learning. In this article, I share my journey from a young competitor focused on fighting to a passionate instructor who believes in the deeper values of Shotokan karate.
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The Top 5 Key Practices for Lifelong Martial Arts Training
Martial arts is a lifelong journey—but staying strong, mobile, and injury-free as you age requires more than just dedication. Smart, sustainable training practices make all the difference.
In this article, we explore five essential, time-efficient strategies to help you continue training well into old age, without burnout or unnecessary wear and tear. From joint health to smarter training methods, recovery, strength work, and mindset shifts, these simple yet powerful adjustments will keep you moving, improving, and enjoying martial arts for decades to come.
Read on to discover how to future-proof your training!
My Karate Journey
In this personal reflection, Ben shares his karate journey so far—from the excitement of first stepping into the dojo to the confidence he's built through training and competition. His story captures the joy, growth, and unforgettable moments that karate has brought into his life.
My Martial Arts Journey
Are you looking for inspiration and insight from someone who truly understands the journey of karate? In this article, Dawn Adam shares her personal story of training with remarkable instructors, overcoming challenges, and finding her passion for karate again. Click the link to read about her experiences with Sensei Chrissie Howard, her journey to Black Belt, and the sense of community she found at Sakura Dojo. Don't miss this heartfelt journey back to the dojo!