Emphasis and Philosophy:

Always doing one's best, Adhering to the principles of the Code Of Bushido, Realistic Self Defense, Mutual Respect, Appropriate Reaction, traditional Kokondo Uniforms, Power Through Dynamics, Pride is Within (students or Instructors don't wear badges to indicate they are doing what they are supposed to be doing, i.e., making classes on time, appropriate behavior, good sportsmanship etc.). Everyone in the dojo is treated equally... A woman, for example, does not wear a stripe through her belt to designate the rank is for a female. Yet, we treat women with appropriate respect.

We further acknowledge the following truths: Any idiot can hurt someone! And: We practice on the basis of knowing that our partner has to go to school or work the next day. Our arts effectiveness is such that kicks, punches, strikes, nerve & pressure points or throws we use give the appropriate results we seek...But, on the other hand, we practice and hope we never have to use our art... that would be a real badge of honor.

Practice:

We practice hard, but we work with each other on the basis of who we are working with...If two black belts are working out with each other and want to make contact, it is by agreement. We take a great deal of pride in our kime (focus)- the ability to deliver a fast, powerful technique to any part of the body without injury (or pain) to the partner. (There are practice elements in which we confirm "what could have happened" if we chose to institute pain). Virtually all of our karate self defense stems from elements within kata. (Contrary to some, we have proven over the years the value and effectiveness of these kata techniques in actual "field" work.)