What Kind of Martial Arts is Cobra Kai Karate?
Although Cobra Kai may appear as a unique style of Martial Arts, it has been recognized to have deep roots. The origin of this violent, often aggressive, form is rooted in Korean tradition and a martial arts style called Tang Soo Do. It translates as “the way of the open hand” and is regarded as an effective method for both self-defense and war. In many instances, this martial art is described as a powerful style for protecting individuals. This means that Cobra Kai style is inspired by this art.
However, the characters in Cobra Kai show a variation of this art. One example of this - with John Kreese and Terry Silver - highlights their training from Master Kim Sun-Yung who took those core principles and adapted the core ideology behind this art form by introducing John Kreese style - often regarded as "The Way of the Fist" which makes it more offensive.
How does the Cobra Kai style differ from other styles of Karate?
Cobra Kai Karate as depicted in The Karate Kid series is quite violent in its presentation of how characters in the show perform Martial Arts techniques, using a mix of Tang Soo Do techniques - often known for strong punches, kicking techniques and dynamic stances - making for an impressive style that is distinct from other, gentler forms of martial arts. For example, Miyagi-Do karate which Daniel LaRusso is introduced to. It serves as the core counterpoint, often regarded as the "way of the open hand" - a gentle, more traditional martial art that was often a way for defensive practices as it used its techniques to effectively block and to counter its opponents' movements.
Many of those Tang Soo Do techniques in Cobra Kai can be recognized. These include, punches and kicks that make the art form, which has a focus on offense as the goal in their bouts and how they learn to develop those tactics that they will bring to their fights. These are a stark contrast from Miyagi-Do which aims to give students more control and to find a path that embraces respect, in many instances, to find a more ethical way to face adversaries.
What Is Tang Soo Do karate like?
Many who have enjoyed Cobra Kai have sought to better understand the world of martial arts, specifically, Tang Soo Do which has a rich history dating back centuries and an impressive level of development.
This martial art is considered an offshoot from Okinawan Karate and can also have its roots in a traditional Korean art, called Taekkyon and was primarily taught by Master Kim Sun-Yung. Fans of the martial arts are aware that Tang Soo Do has an emphasis on respect, integrity - its philosophy - in the same sense, it has an important element: It aims to use defense as a core concept - and is in direct contrast to the Cobra Kai dojo's principles which embraces a violent form of this martial art, known for "no mercy" and an aggression - that stands as an opposite to what is seen as a core element of this martial art style. It is also important to note how Tang Soo Do vs Taekwondo has been cited in the evolution of the arts.
What is the History of Tang Soo Do?
Tang Soo Do has a long history. Many who are familiar with this martial art will recall how it's traced back centuries ago. It's often recognized that Korean practitioners who mastered the art form (after returning from the US), and were seeking a better, more streamlined way to express those values within martial arts - began to reshape the martial arts - introducing Tang Soo Do history. Fans should remember how this art style is considered an amalgamation - that blends its history, culture and how it took shape in modern society.
This art form is well established in modern history, as it had been taught and developed since the 1940s - those who followed the development, knew it's based on Okinawan karate and kung fu. This served as an important foundation to transform these styles into those that are widely practiced - including the emergence of taekwondo (a key art style that became one of the more widely recognized forms). It continues to remain an important element within the world of martial arts.
Who Teaches Cobra Kai Karate in the Show?
While the Cobra Kai series is well established for its martial arts and those events, including its central figures such as Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence, it is essential to recognize those characters who are often overlooked, namely, Master Kim Sun-Yung. He is often recognized as a teacher in the Cobra Kai universe - one who was responsible for guiding two iconic figures, John Kreese and Terry Silver.
The Cobra Kai universe is built on how Master Kim Sun-Yung was a force for change in those who he taught - influencing how they would later change Cobra Kai dojo. Those characters were influenced in their approach. There’s a significant focus on how their personalities developed over decades. Kreese and Terry Silver would have been mentored, with a greater focus on aggression and using those Tang Soo Do techniques to the extreme. They are the main figures for making Cobra Kai a major player. It’s something that can also be seen as a distinct point for all the viewers who continue to explore this show, which features powerful action sequences with a focus on Cobra Kai fighting.
Is Cobra Kai Still Based On Tang Soo Do?
While Cobra Kai karate has become widely known for being a blend of Tang Soo Do karate and other martial art forms, many viewers are often intrigued by its legacy and its potential to grow.
The series - which continues to grow - offers a number of events in Cobra Kai. Many are inspired by those actions that are rooted in those elements. In Cobra Kai - the central premise was that Johnny Lawrence would have taken over as the new sensei of the dojo, continuing on that legacy that had been built by his own sensei. One of the biggest takeaways for those who love Cobra Kai and who are drawn to those martial arts themes: The show has shifted to the core philosophy that inspired Kreese. But in Cobra Kai season 6 there may be an entirely new transformation - one that could lead to the development of an even more powerful version of Cobra Kai style - particularly as Johnny Lawrence tries to break free of that violent history and may find himself having to go down a different path, with its roots in a more positive sense of that martial arts legacy.
