Most martial arts practitioners around the world still use the original Japanese terminology.

At World Kanreikai Karate we practice and teach a Japanese style of karate in a traditional fashion. Japanese expressions used in class contribute first, to perpetuate our art’s Japanese tradition and second, to unite members of all Kanreikai dojo whose native tongue can be English, French, Polish or any other language.

Among all the Japanese expressions used in our schools, « Osu! » is probably the one most frequently heard. This short three-letter word encompasses the fundamental principles of martial arts and expresses a quest for physical and spiritual harmony at the dojo and in daily life.

More specifically, « Osu » means patience, respect and appreciation.

Patience: The physical and mental strength of each individual steadily develops by means of a rigorous training that constantly requires to overcome difficulties. One must be aware that practicing karate is not “racing toward a black belt”! A student must first establish his or her goals and then work steadily to achieve them one at a time, patiently, by constantly refining his or her skills.

Respect: A student’s decision to engage in intensive training is in itself a demonstration of self-respect. Respect for the teacher and other students follows naturally. This mutual deference at the dojo then spreads to everyday life.

Appreciation: Before, during and after each training session at the dojo, students often express their appreciation of their teacher and fellow students by saying “Osu!”. It is a way to acknowledge and to thank them. In return, saying “Osu!” recalls that one belongs to the group. It is a way for each student to take his  or her place and to show solidarity, willingness and determination.