Karate, and the work that grew from it.
A lifetime of practice, teaching, writing and research.
I began training in karate in 1974 and started teaching in 1985.
Much of my work since then has involved looking beyond what we practice to ask why we practice it, how we teach it, and whether it holds up when conditions change.
Over the years, that work has taken several directions, from teaching and practical training to writing and historical research.
I've kept these different areas on separate websites, each with its own purpose. They are connected by the same lifelong interest in karate, and this is where they come together.
The purpose is not simply to make training difficult. It is to make it informative.
Where to Begin
Four different places, each exploring a particular aspect of my work.
Applied Methods
My current writing on practical karate, training, teaching, application and self-protection.
applied-methods.orgShuri Dojo
The home of my teaching and the practice of Ryukyu Karate Jutsu - Shuhaku-den.
shuridojo.orgShuriway
Karate history, biographies, lineage and reference material gathered and developed over many years.
shuriway.comOpen Hand Notebook
An archive of earlier articles, observations and notes on karate and training.
adamcarter.usSelected Writing
A few articles from Applied Methods that reflect how I approach karate, training, teaching and self-protection.
How Do We Use Kata Effectively?
Beginning with a problem rather than inventing an attack to fit a movement.
Applied MethodsThe Point Where Training Pushes Back
What resistance, feedback and honest training can tell us about what we believe.
Applied MethodsBefore It Becomes a Fight
Why self-protection often begins long before physical contact.
Applied MethodsWhat Does the Grade Represent?
Why a grade should recognize development, rather than create the appearance of it.
Applied MethodsThe Work Continues
Karate remains an ongoing study for me. My understanding has changed with experience, and I expect it to keep changing.
Email: Contact by email