Karate Business

Karate is a luxury, not a necessity. We can do it because we have time and money. It is a (ugh!) hobby; like bowling or album making. There are karate schools on every corner, next to the Nail Parlors, the Taco Shops, and the Sushi Bars. It's capitalism. We're consumers; its buy and sell. Why should karate be any different.

Some people have capitalized on this concept and have become very successful. They've created a business based on kicking and punching, sprinkled it with some basic psychology, added a dash of metaphysics, wrapped it up in a nice package tied with a black belt, and there you go. There's nothing wrong with that, it's what the market will bear. If a person comes away feeling better about themselves, has more confidence and self-esteem, is more physically fit, even happier, then a successful transaction has occurred.

Its a big world and there is something for everyone. Karate purists (traditionalists) tend to frown upon the big box concept of karate training. It can be viewed as shallow and ineffective karate; a rip off. I think that's mostly true, but so what. Let the buyer beware.

Purists dig deep. Traditionalists hold that the Black Belt represents the beginning of training, and is not the pinnacle of achievement. Unfortunately, that is a hard sell to the general public who've been raised on instant gratification. The masses are not to be faulted. Its just business.