Karate Is My Secret

[Arthur Stone]

"Karate is my secret" is an idea that we constantly repeat and
reinforce in Shuri-Ryu Karatedo. It is largely believed to refer to
the teaching of karate and that karate techniques should be kept
secret. However, I believe it can more accurately be rephrased as "my
karate training is my secret."
Karate is an ambush art. A great deal of its effectiveness comes from
the aggressor being unaware that his intended victim has special
knowledge and skill. We are taught in karate to be humble. This has a
lot to do with the spiritual aspects of the art and preventing its
misuse, but it is also good tactical practice.
Karate is largely influenced by Chinese martial arts which used the
study of animals for much of its doctrine. Animals use deception and
ambush tactics. Animals remain hidden or disguised exposing their true
nature only when necessary or to gain the most advantage. At its best,
karate should work like this. When violent response is forced upon a
karateka, the response should be completely unexpected.
When it comes to evaluating different martial arts, a lot of people
place too much stock in mixed martial arts' matches for their
comparison. These are fights between highly trained, evenly matched
and fully prepared individuals in a controlled environment without
risk of third party intervention. Although deception can play a part,
there is very little opportunity for ambush. MMA fighters know their
opponent is trained and has skills, thus removing one of the greatest
advantages karateka have on the street. MMA fighters train for long
sustained fights of attrition. Karateka train for brief, unexpected
encounters using the utmost force required. Once again turning to
animals, predators may wait long periods until the moment is right,
but once they attack, the results can be instantaneous.
Hollywood is fond of the guy that assumes a deep "karate" stance and
says something to the effect, "I must warn you, I am an expert in
karate." This will only happen if the individual is bluffing, or
mentally challenged. If a karateka ever did this, he or she might not
make it back for their second class. It is this hidden knowledge that
allows true martial artists to lead humble existences. Knowing they
can defend themselves against most aggressors eliminates the need to
"prove" themselves or feel threatened. Only through this mental state
can martial artists attain the balance sought through the "way" of
martial arts and say with confidence, "karate is my secret."

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