RPP Karate

History of RPP Karate

RPP Karate was founded in the early 1970s by Master Hiroshi Nakamura, a student of the legendary Shotokan master Gichin Funakoshi. The acronym RPP stands for Respect, Power, Precision, three principles that guide every practitioner.

Originally a small dojo in Osaka, Japan, RPP Karate grew quickly as Master Nakamura emphasized a blend of traditional kata with modern selfdefence applications. By the 1980s, satellite schools appeared in Europe and North America, each supervised by senior instructors certified directly by the RPP headquarters.

Philosophy

The RPP philosophy rests on three pillars:

• Respect towards the instructor, fellow students, and oneself.
• Power not only physical strength but also mental resilience.
• Precision every movement must be executed with exact timing and form.

RPP Karate teaches that mastery of technique is inseparable from character development. Students are encouraged to apply karates lessons to everyday life, cultivating discipline, humility, and confidence.

Technique and Curriculum

The curriculum is organized into progressive belts, each representing a deeper understanding of the art.

Basic Levels (White to Green)

• Fundamental stances (shiko-dachi, zenkutsu-dachi)
• Basic strikes (gyaku-zuki, oi-zuki, mae-geri)
• Introduction to kata: Taikyoku Shodan

Intermediate Levels (Blue to Brown)

• Advanced blocks and counterattacks
• Combination techniques (Kumite drills)
• Kata set: Heian Shodan Heian Godan

Advanced Level (Black Belt)

• Complex kata: Kanku Dai, Gojshiho
• Free sparring with strategic analysis
• Selfdefence scenarios and weapon awareness

Every kata is taught with a focus on Kime the powerful, decisive finish that embodies the principle of precision.

Training Structure

Classes are held three times a week, each lasting 90 minutes:

1. Warmup & Conditioning dynamic stretching, core work, and plyometrics.
2. Technique Drills repetition of punches, kicks, and footwork.
3. Kata Practice with instructor feedback on stance and breathing.
4. Sparring (Kumite) controlled bouts that develop timing and distance.
5. Cooldown & Reflection breathing exercises and brief meditation.

Special workshops are offered quarterly, covering topics such as:

• Breaking techniques (Tameshiwari)
• Traditional weapons (Bo, Jo, Sai)
• Firstaid and injury prevention

Community and Events

RPP Karate is more than a martial art; it is a family. Dojos host regular events that strengthen bonds among members:

• Annual Tournament open to all ranks, featuring kata and kumite divisions.
• Seminar Week visiting masters share their expertise.
• Charity Demonstrations performances that support local causes.
• Student Exchange opportunities to train at partner dojos abroad.

Parents and nonpracticing members are encouraged to attend Karate Days, where they can observe training, meet instructors, and learn basic selfdefence moves.

How to Join RPP Karate

Ready to start your journey? Follow these simple steps:

1. Locate a Dojo use the map on our homepage or call the national office.
2. Schedule a Trial Class first sessions are free of charge.
3. Complete Registration fill out the intake form, provide a health certificate, and choose a membership plan.
4. Get the Uniform a white gi, belt, and optional sparring gloves.
5. Begin Training your instructor will assign a personal training plan and set goal milestones.

We offer discounted rates for students, seniors, and families. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.