André Bertel’s Karate‑Do is a long‑running blog by André Bertel, a 7th‑dan Shotokan instructor living and training in Oita City, Japan. A direct student of the late Asai Tetsuhiko Shuseki‑Shihan, Bertel documents his daily practice, technical studies, and the principles of Budo Karate as preserved in the International Karate Shotokan (IKS). His writing emphasizes traditional budo values, precise technique, correct maai (distancing), and the original combative intent behind Shotokan waza.
The blog features detailed technical breakdowns, kata analysis, training notes, and reflections on Asai‑style Shotokan methodology. Bertel often explains the biomechanics, intent, and tactical reasoning behind fundamental techniques, as well as the influence of his teachers and the importance of preserving karate as true budo rather than sport.
Overall, the site serves as a deep technical and philosophical resource for practitioners interested in traditional Shotokan, Asai‑ha methods, and high‑level budo karate training directly from Japan.
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