Hermann Bayer PhD - Analysis of Genuine Karate: Misconceptions, Origins, Development, and True Purpose (Martial Science)

We welcome this fascinating exploration of the many modern misconceptions about genuine Okinawan karate. The book explains that Okinawan Te was originally developed for the purpose of self-protection but that over the last several decades other purposes were added, namely physical education, recreation, meditation, and sports. It acknowledges that there were good reasons for these additions but strongly suggests that we not confuse them with the genuine intention of the artas that art is taught at our and other traditional dojos.

Sensei Noel Smith, Kyoshi, 8th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shorinkan, head coach for the US karate team 1973 to 1978, USA Karate Hall of Fame inductee

Dr. Bayer has written an extraordinarily insightful book that will assist its readers in their personal growth and understanding of Okinawas martial culture. His passion, curiosity, and finely honed research and analytical skills have resulted in a rare work of substance, enlightenment, and truth.

William (Bill) Hayes, Hanshi, 9th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shobayashi-Kan, inducted into the Karate Masters Hall of Fame and into the American-Okinawan Karate Association Hall of Fame, major in the United States Marine Corps (retired)

Hermann Bayers Analysis of Genuine Karate is extraordinarily interesting and informative. He brings clarity to many of the greatest misconceptions about karate, from cultural traditions and the mindset of the founding fathers of traditional Okinawan karate to the modern worldwide promulgation of karate for fame and money. He leaves no stone unturned, addressing differences in training methods and goals that could mean the difference between life and death. In this book, Hermann Bayer has his finger on the pulse of authentic and traditional Okinawa karate-do and culture.

Nestor Tadeusz Folta, 8th Dan Uechi-Ryu, Soke Shubukan, master instructor in the Uechi-Ryu Karate-Do Association, inductee to the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame 1996

Given the ever-widening gap between the karate practiced in Okinawa and the karate practiced elsewhere around the world, it was perhaps inevitable that a book such as this would be written. More than one mans opinion, Analysis of Genuine Karate is the result of the authors methodical academic research. Hermann has consulted widely and sought expert opinion. The result of his research awaits the reader. I have no doubt this book will spark a great many conversations about what is and what isnt Genuine Karate.

Michael Clarke, author, Kyoshi, 8th Dan Okinawan Goju-Ryu, author of The Art of Hojo Undo, Shin Gi Tai, and Redemption

Engaging, enlightening, and informative, this book reflects a love, devotion, dedication, and level of knowledge that is comparable to if not exceeds anything that has been published on the topic by anyone.

Bernard N. Curry, PhD, LCSW, CSOTP, CCTP; university professor

Doctor Bayers book will be an excellent addition to the library of anyone interested in the study of karate. He has made good use of his considerable experience training in traditional Okinawan karate and Japanese karate in his examination of their fundamental differences. His research gives the reader a good look at the historical, social, philosophical, and physical dynamics of the development of karate as it evolved from its origins in Okinawa to its adoption by the culture of mainland Japan.

Raymond (Gene) Adkins, Renshi, 6th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shorinkan

Dr. Hermann Bayers book on the cultural heritage and influences of Okinawan karate versus sport karate is well researched, well organized and well presented. Hermanns intelligent, sincere, and thoughtful approach helps both the novice and the experienced karateka see the brilliance behind kata and the deep well of potential preserved in the cultural art of Okinawan karate.

Ted Jacobson, 5th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shorinkan

Misconceptions, Origins, Development, and True Purpose

Hermann Bayer, Ph.D.

YMAA Publication Center

Wolfeboro, NH USA

YMAA Publication Center, Inc.

PO Box 480

Wolfeboro, NH 03894

800 669-8892

ISBN: 9781594398438 (print) ISBN: 9781594398445 (ebook)

This book set in Adobe Garamond and Frutiger.

All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form.

Copyright 2021 by Hermann Bayer

Edited by Doran Hunter

Cover design by Axie Breen

Photos by author unless otherwise noted

Charts and graphs by author unless otherwise noted

20211001

Publishers Cataloging in Publication

Names: Bayer, Hermann, author. | McCarthy, Pat (Patrick), writer of foreword.

Title: Analysis of genuine karate : misconceptions, origins, development, and true purpose / Hermann Bayer ; foreword by Patrick McCarthy.

Description: Wolfeboro, NH USA : YMAA Publication Center, [2021] | Includes bibliographical references and index.

Identifiers: ISBN: 97815943988438 (print) | 9781594398445 (ebook) | LCCN: 2021943063

Subjects: LCSH: KarateJapanOkinawa Island. | KarateForeign influences. | KaratePhysiological aspects. | KarateHistoryErrors, inventions, etc. | KarateHistorySociological aspects. | Martial artsHistory. | BISAC: SPORTS & RECREATION / History. | SPORTS & RECREATION / Martial Arts / General. | SPORTS & RECREATION / Martial Arts / Karate.

Classification: LCC: GV1114.3 .B39 2021 | DDC: 796.815/3dc23

The authors and publisher of the material are NOT RESPONSIBLE in any manner whatsoever for any injury which may occur through reading or following the instructions in this manual.

The activities physical or otherwise, described in this manual may be too strenuous or dangerous for some people, and the reader(s) should consult a physician before engaging in them.

Neither the authors nor the publisher assumes any responsibility for the use or misuse of information contained in this book.

Nothing in this document constitutes a legal opinion nor should any of its contents be treated as such. While the authors believe that everything herein is accurate, any questions regarding specific self-defense situations, legal liability, and/or interpretation of federal, state, or local laws should always be addressed by an attorney at law.

When it comes to martial arts, self-defense, and related topics, no text, no matter how well written, can substitute for professional, hands-on instruction. These materials should be used for academic study only.

by Patrick McCarthy, Hanshi, 9th Dan

by the Author

Accurately understanding why is too crucial an element to dismiss when we seek to advance our skills and become successful in doing so. This couldnt be truer for an art developed for the purpose of self-defense.

In recent years there has been significant interest in finding a way back to the old-ways, to the original and more pragmatic approach to the art of karate. In spite of its current popularity as a cultural recreation and rule-bound competitive sport, much of todays karate has become wholly dysfunctional as a form of self-protection. Researchers involved with such a study have collectively revealed that changes made to original Okinawan karate, after it arrived on Japans mainland in the 1920s, had transformed it to the point where it no longer reflected its original functionality.