The Shotokan Pocket Book is a compilation of the translation of Karateka Terminology and other Japanese words and phrases into English. This book has been written to assist students of Karate-Do and to supplement their training and learning processes. Both junior and senior Karateka should find this book useful.
In compiling this book, the primary objective has been to provide a comprehensive reference book that lists the various Japanese terms, commands and expressions that are used when training in the dojo and when taking part in competition. Sections 2 to 19 are devoted to this.
Section 1 explains the general rules of pronunciation of Japanese for the English speaking tongue. It is important to spend time understanding the basic principles which should assist students to read and annunciate Japanese words correctly.
Sections 20, 21 and 22 contain the Dojo Kun, the 20 Precepts of Gichin Funakoshi and Japanese numbers from one to one hundred respectively for quick reference.
Whilst the terms used are primarily the same for all of the popular Japanese Karate styles there are some variations and differences in spelling and pronunciation. This book attempts to take account of this fact and includes the most popular alternatives where applicable. Whilst this book will therefore be useful to Karateka of all styles it focuses on the Shotokan style and therefore Section 14 contains the 26 Shotokan Kata. In addition, this section contains other terms that are used in relation with Kata and one or two Kata performed by other styles which are of particular interest to Shotokan Karateka.