Rivalries and Power Structures in Karate

There are over 100 million karateka worldwide who must pay fees for training, rank exams, instructor certificates, badges, clothing, and many other things. There is a constant stream of money coming from karateka all over the world flowing to smaller and bigger karate organizations. The financial resources are one source for rivalries between such organizations, another is the difference between the styles since two students of the same teacher doesn’t necessarily practice their karate the same way. Both may establish their own organizations and claim that their style is the most original which could lead to more paying students. The karateka in those organizations grow up in such power relations, identify with their organization. If they choose to resign and join another organization, they may lose their ranks or pay for new certificates. Greater knowledge about the diversity, greater solidarity, and greater unity within the karate society would be preferable

Physics · Martial Arts: Techniques, Psychology, and Education · Physical Education and Pedagogy · Sports Analytics and Performance