The following are common Martial Arts words and terms that we will be using through out the year.  This page will explain what they mean and when to use them.

SENSEI --- This is a Japanese word that means teacher. It is a sign of respect and honor for the black belt instructors.

SEMPI --- This is a Japanese word that means honored student. It is used when addressing the higher ranking students in the class.

DOJO --- This is a Japanese word that means school or temple. In the old days, most martial arts were taught by monks in their temple.

KATA --- A Japanese word which describes a set series of moves to simulate a fight against mulitiple attackers. Katas have a combination of defensive and offensive moves. They are used to teach students how to move from one stance to another.

SPARRING  --- Sparring is a word we use to describe a fight between two oppenents. Sparring matches take place in a small area called a ring. The two students enter into the ring and use a combination of kicks, punches and blocks against the other student. All techniques are used with proper control and focus to ensure that no one is hurt. We also use sparring gear to protect students against possible accidents.

LAI --- This is the word we use for the bow when we enter or leave a DOJO or a sparring ring. This shows respect for the DOJO and for the sparring ring. When we spar, the ring is considered to be a DOJO.  We also bow when we address the black belts or higher ranking students.  We also bow before and after every class and at the begining of all KATAS.

KIAI --- This is a sound that we make when we do KATAS and when we spar.It acts as a focus for the power and energy in a punch or a kick. It is also used as a means to startle or scare your opponent.