Japanese Martial Arts

(2 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This is both a practical and discussion-based class. In the practical sense, we will be exploring the world of Japanese martial arts (budo) through karate. We will also look at the mental aspects of Japanese martial arts through the introduction of its history, development, and current place in modern Japanese society. The purpose of this course is to provide you with an introduction to some of the basic techniques of karate (kicks, punches, blocks, etc.) in a practical sense as well as the opportunity to gain insight into the Japanese psyche through discussion of the philosophical side of Japanese martial arts. At the beginning of each class, I will provide a short overview of the lecture content. Then, as a group, we will learn and practice some of the basic techniques of karate. After practice, we will then look at and hold a class discussion regarding topics on the history, development, and philosophical aspects of Japanese martial arts. Your thoughtful, active participation through the course is expected.