Sterling Martial Arts

Philosophy

We at SMA understand that people join martial arts for a variety of reasons. Although Sterling Martial Arts is rooted in tradition, we maintain a modern outlook on karate and self defense. In our commitment to create a well-rounded martial artist, we incorporate tradition, tournament, and realistic techniques to ensure that our students are prepared on several different levels.

Being a martial artist is more than kicking and punching; it's a governing way of life. Honesty, integrity, respect, discipline and honor are just a few values of a true martial artist. At SMA, we strive to bring out these values in our students.

Master Funakoshi wrote these twenty precepts to help karate students transform their art into a way of life.

1. Karate begins and ends with courtesy.

2. There is no first attack in karate.

3. Karate is an aid to justice.

4. First control yourself before attempting to control others.

5. Spirit first, technique second.

6. Always be ready to release your mind.

7. Accidents arise from negligence.

8. Do not think that Karate training is only in the dojo.

9. It will take your entire life to learn Karate; there is no limit.

10. Put your every day living into Karate and you will find "Myo" (The subtle secrets!).

11. Karate is like boiling water; if you do not heat it constantly, it will cool.

12. Do not think that you have to win, think rather that you do not have to lose.

13. Victory depends on your ability to distinguish vulnerable points from invulnerable ones.

14. The battle is according to how you move guarded and unguarded (Move according to your opponent).

15. Think of your hands and feet as swords.

16. When you leave home, think that you have numerous opponents waiting for you.

17. Beginners must master low stance and posture; natural body positions are for the advanced.

18. Practicing a Kata is one thing, engaging in a real fight is another.

19. Do not forget to correctly apply: strength and weakness of power, stretching and contraction of the body
and slowness and speed of techniques.

20. Always think and devise ways to live the precepts everyday.