Preserve Tradition. Understand Karate. Shape the Future.
The Hidetaka Nishiyama Karate Institute (HNKI) – The Technical Foundation of the International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF)
As General Secretary of the International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF), I consider it important to emphasize the unique role of the Hidetaka Nishiyama Karate Institute (HNKI).
The HNKI was established by our founder and teacher, Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama (1928–2008). It serves as the technical foundation of the ITKF, with the responsibility of preserving and passing on the principles, knowledge and technical standards of Traditional Karate worldwide.
Traditional Karate Is More Than Competition
For the ITKF, Traditional Karate means much more than competitive sport. We strive to preserve a martial art in which technical excellence, effective body mechanics, health, discipline and character development are inseparably connected. Karate should not be reduced to points, medals and competition results. At its heart is the long-term development of the individual through a profound and technically demanding martial art.
Understand the Technique – Don’t Just Perform It
The HNKI helps ensure that the fundamental principles of Traditional Karate are not lost or diluted by an increasing focus on competition. The technical principles, biomechanical concepts and teachings of Sensei Nishiyama are preserved, documented and passed on to the next generation of instructors. Our instructors should not simply perform Karate. They should understand why a technique works and how it can be taught effectively and in a way that respects the health of the practitioner.
A Common Technical Foundation for the ITKF
The HNKI provides a common technical foundation for the ITKF and its member organizations worldwide. It supports consistent standards in education and helps ensure that the essential principles of Traditional Karate remain internationally recognizable and preserved.
Passing on the Legacy
As the ITKF, our goal is to preserve the knowledge and values of the founders of Traditional Karate and pass them on to future generations. The HNKI plays a central role in this mission.
Traditional Karate must remain authentic, profound and alive – today and for generations to come.
Michael Bock
General Secretary of the International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF)
Download