How to Become a Karate Champion
It is essential to master the traditional forms of karate, also known as kata if you want to be a champion. The steps you need to take to be successful include the following.
Identify a Suitable Form for You
There are different forms of karate, and your choice will depend on several factors, such as body type, interest, age, and reasons for engaging the martial arts. Do your research and talk to your sensei (karate teacher), before you start taking lessons so that you can share your expectations.
Work on Your Focus
Karate requires you to have a lot of focus. You will need to focus on your movements, eye contact, breathing and general body coordination, for you to win against your opponent. Your trainer will highlight areas you need to focus on, but it will be upon you to internalise them, and continually practice for you to be a professional.
Keep Practicing
The reason why most people struggle to master karate skills is that they do not dedicate their time and energy to it. Martial arts involve a series of skills that are perfected over time. The only way to do this is by always practising and improving your moves. Keep doing it, even if you are unsure of yourself.
Ask for Feedback
Even as you start mastering karate, there may be things that you are not getting right. That is why it is advisable to practice before an audience, and ask questions. Tell your sensei to give you feedback, and appreciate it, even when you get negative feedback.
Start Entering Tournaments
As scary as this may sound, it is a necessary step in becoming a champion. There are always competitions for different levels of karate students. Do not be afraid of entering tournaments, because they are your way of objectively knowing how good you are at karate.