Any type of Martial Art or sport has a place of origin, a history, and its own terminology. Whenever we practice a form of Martial Art that originated in another country, out of respect for customs and history, we keep the terminology.

For example, even though football has become increasingly popular in Japan, the terms that are used throughout the games are American. As well, Judo originated in Japan and has become an international Martial Art. At the Olympics, all the terminology that was used kept to Japanese traditions.

Oyama karate originated in Japan and is currently taught in a traditional manner. This is why the karate terminology is in Japanese. The equivalent French and English words may be used as well. This is to facilitate the learning of students. When we learn and use the proper terms of a particular art, we are also touching upon its history.

Below is some Oyama karate terminology will be defined so that you can memorize them more easily.

Etiquette
• General Dojo Etiquette
• Rules
• Dojo Kun
• Osu
• Mokuso
General Terms
• General Terms
• Numbers
• Positions
Techniques
• Foot Techniques
• Knee Techniques
• Hand Techniques
• Elbow Techniques
• Blocking Techniques