The Heart of Competition – Why We Compete in Karate

At Contact Kicks Martial Arts (CKMA), we’ve always valued the spirit of competition. Both our Barrie and Mississauga dojos have long supported students who choose to test themselves through Kyokushin Karate competition, representing our dojos with pride, discipline, and humility.

Competition: A Personal Choice

However, competition is not something we impose—it’s something each student must choose for themselves. We encourage, inspire, and support our competitors, but the decision to step into the ring must come from within.

Beyond Medals and Trophies

At CKMA, we believe Karate is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life. While tournaments, medals, and trophies are part of the journey, they are not the destination. True Karate training—whether at our Barrie dojo or Mississauga dojo—is about self-perfection through discipline, humility, and perseverance.

The Mindset of a Competitor

For those who compete, we teach a mindset that is focused yet detached. Competitors should train with purpose and intensity, giving their very best, but also understand that winning and losing are only moments in time. What matters most is the growth, character, and spirit developed along the way.

The Right Spirit in Kyokushin Karate

In Kyokushin Karate, the heart of competition lies in respect, honor, and tradition. Every opponent deserves acknowledgment, and every match is an opportunity to demonstrate true martial spirit. A strong competitor remains humble in victory and gracious in defeat, always following the etiquette and discipline that define the Budo way.

Facing the True Opponent

At Contact Kicks Martial Arts, our students are taught that the real opponent is not the person across from them, but the one within—the doubts, fears, and limitations that hold us back.

Competition and The Martial Way

Competition is part of human nature—it’s what drives us to improve, to test ourselves, and to grow stronger. But as martial artists, we must always remember why we train. The Martial Way (Budo) is about developing not only the body, but the mind and spirit.

The Ultimate Goal

Whether a student chooses to compete or not, the goal remains the same: to become a better version of themselves every single day. That is the true essence of Kyokushin Karate and the foundation of everything we do at Contact Kicks Martial Arts Barrie and Mississauga.

Osu!

Shihan Steve Fogarasi

Contact Kicks Martial Arts – Barrie & Mississauga

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