The ITKF cannot Be Stopped
1st ITKF Winter Master Camp 2026 Strengthens Global Traditional Karate
ITKF International Traditional Karate Congress 2026 in Malaga-Fuengirola, Spain
From February 13 to 16, 2026, the first ITKF Winter Master Camp for instructors was successfully held in Malaga-Fuengirola, Spain. Organized by Sensei Ruben Cernuda, the event marked a major milestone for the International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF) and its global development strategy.
The camp was led by Sensei Richard Jorgensen (9th Dan), Chairman of the ITKF, who served as Chief Training Director. With participants from eight nations and the full presence of the ITKF Board of Directors, the event demonstrated the growing international momentum of ITKF Traditional Karate.
Focus on ITKF Standardization and Technical Excellence
A central objective of the ITKF Winter Master Camp 2026 was the standardization of traditional karate according to the training program of Hidetaka Nishiyama. The ITKF continues to preserve and promote Nishiyama’s lineage, emphasizing technical precision, self-defense application, and unified global teaching standards.
In alignment with the regulations of the Hidetaka Nishiyama Karate Institute (HNKI), detailed discussions were conducted regarding:
– ITKF championship organization
– Global instructor certification standards
– Harmonized training guidelines
– Long-term technical leadership within Traditional Shotokan Karate
Sensei Jorgensen introduced newly developed instructor documents designed to further unify ITKF teaching methodology worldwide.
High-Level Technical Program: Kihon, Kata, Kumite & Budo
The technical curriculum reflected the classical ITKF training structure:
– Kihon (Basics) – precision, posture, and body mechanics
– Kata (Forms) – structure, rhythm, and application
– Kumite (Sparring) – timing, distance, and strategy
– Budo Philosophy – deeper understanding of martial principles
Special emphasis was placed on Kime, breathing techniques, Ki-ai, and the practical self-defense application of techniques. Sensei Jorgensen skillfully demonstrated the inseparable connection between Kihon, Kata, and Kumite—core principles of ITKF Traditional Karate.
During afternoon sessions, students were integrated into the program. This allowed instructors to apply and demonstrate structured ITKF teaching methods in real training environments.
ITKF Board Meeting & Global Expansion
On February 15, 2026, the second ITKF Board of Directors meeting took place. All discussions confirmed the organization’s clear and unified commitment to the teachings and technical standards established by Sensei Nishiyama.
A significant decision during the camp was the official admission of:
– State of Knights – Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem – Knights of Malta – Federation of the Autonomous Priories (KMFAP), under the leadership of Michael Bock.
This expansion reflects the continuous international growth of the ITKF and its mission to strengthen Traditional Karate worldwide.
ITKF Europe: Malaga as Future Winter Camp Base
The success of the 1st ITKF Winter Master Camp has positioned Malaga as a potential permanent European base for future ITKF winter events. Thanks to the strong organizational support of local instructors and the outstanding technical leadership, the camp created a highly professional yet friendly training atmosphere.
The spirit of unity, discipline, and technical excellence demonstrated that the ITKF is steadily regaining its former global strength.
ITKF 2026 Outlook: Stronger, United, and Growing
The ITKF Winter Master Camp 2026 clearly showed:
– Growing international participation
– Strong technical leadership
– Commitment to Nishiyama lineage
– Structured global instructor standardization
– Expanding ITKF membership worldwide
As ITKF Secretary General Michael Bock summarized: “The ITKF cannot be stopped.”
With a clear technical direction, international unity, and dedication to Traditional Karate, the International Traditional Karate Federation continues to move forward—stronger than ever.