Mas Oyama 39-s Complete Karate Course Pdf [2021] -
Mas Oyama’s Complete Karate Course is a definitive instructional guide by Masutatsu Oyama, the legendary founder of Kyokushin Karate. Originally published in English in 1998, this 256-page volume is an adapted and updated version of his earlier work, Mas Oyama’s Essential Karate (1978). Core Content & Structure
The course is designed to take a practitioner from absolute beginner fundamentals to advanced combat applications.
Visual breakdown: The book is heavily illustrated with approximately 1,000 black-and-white photographs. These photos utilize a multi-stroboscopic technique to break down complex movements, such as the trajectory of a punch or the transition between stances.
Technical scope: It covers the primary "weapons" of the body, including various fist positions (Seiken, Keiko), feet, and head thrusts.
Progressive training: Chapters move from preparatory calisthenics (warm-ups and flexibility) to basic stances, thrusts, kicks, and blocks. It also introduces early kata, such as Taikyoku 1. Mas Oyama 39-s Complete Karate Course Pdf
Practical application: The latter half focuses on sparring (Kumite), self-defense techniques against grabbing or weapons (knife and club), and the famous Kyokushin practice of Tameshiwari (breaking objects). Philosophical Foundation
Beyond physical techniques, Oyama emphasizes the spiritual and mental aspects of the martial art.
The "Shin-Gi-Tai" principle: True mastery requires the alignment of mind (shin), technique (gi), and body (tai).
Kyokushin Way: The text reflects Oyama’s belief that karate should build confidence, calmness, and inner peace, rather than "cockiness". He asserts that karate begins and ends with points and circles—a system where flowing motion creates explosive strength. Mas Oyama’s Complete Karate Course is a definitive
Discipline: A central theme is perseverance (Nintai); Oyama suggests that mastery requires tireless, daily application, and that even one day of missed training reverses progress. Digital Availability
While originally a physical publication by Sterling Publishing, the book is widely available in digital formats for educational use:
Free Lending: You can borrow a digital copy of the full 256-page book through the Internet Archive.
PDF Access: Sites like Scribd and REFHUB host PDF versions for download or online reading. 3. The Strengths
Companion Material: Related titles such as This is Karate and Vital Karate are also archived on Internet Archive for those seeking deeper technical diagrams. Mas Oyama's complete karate course : Ōyama, Masutatsu
Mas Oyama's complete karate course : Ōyama, Masutatsu : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. Internet Archive Mas Oyama's complete karate course : Ōyama, Masutatsu
Chapter 2: The Sanchin Test
The book famously describes the Sanchin kata not as a dance, but as an interrogation. In the PDF, you see students being struck hard in the abdomen and legs while holding the posture. Modern Application: Do not let your friends hit you with sticks. Instead, use the Sanchin breathing exercises (Ibuky) to manage stress and pain during heavy bag work.
Chapter 4: Breaking (Tameshiwari)
The most photographed section. Oyama breaking a stack of tiles with a Shuto (knife hand). The PDF includes a physics breakdown—"focus your weight 1 inch below the surface." Warning: Do not attempt the brick breaking shown in the PDF without a certified instructor. The "Mas Oyama Broken Hand Club" is larger than you think.
Progression & measurements
- Week 1–4: technique foundations, low-intensity conditioning. Measure: perform chosen kata once per session and note errors.
- Week 5–8: increase intensity, add power-focused exercises and sparring. Measure: time/distance on bag rounds, ability to perform kata without pauses.
- Week 9–12: polish kata, simulate tournament rounds in kumite, test conditioning with timed circuits. Measure: round count at full intensity and kata quality (smooth transitions, breathing).
5. The PDF Format
The PDF version is widely sought after because physical copies of the original prints are rare and expensive.
- Pros: Accessibility. You can have the master’s teachings on your tablet instantly.
- Cons: Scanning quality varies. Some PDFs have missing pages or blurred text where the diagrams are unreadable. It disrupts the flow of training if you are constantly scrolling through a device.
3. The Strengths
- Visual Instruction: The photos are black-and-white and grainy, but they are instructive. Oyama demonstrates the techniques himself, and his physical condition is awe-inspiring. You aren't looking at an illustrated model; you are looking at a master in his prime.
- Philosophy: The book includes essays on the spirit of Karate. Oyama emphasizes humility, patience, and the concept that "Karate begins and ends with courtesy." It serves as a reminder that martial arts are as much mental as physical.
- Nostalgia and History: For students of Kyokushin or knockdown karate, this is a bible. It captures the genesis of one of the most influential full-contact styles in the world.