What is Kai-Sun-Do?

Kai-Sun-Do literally means 'the way of unity', a suitable name that describes the union of physical and mental strength into a single form of martial arts. It is based on the Japanese Kyokushinkai karate and although the basic principles remain intact, the style has been refined by founder of Kai-Sun-Do, Kancho Boris Eltman (with over 35 years experience), in a way that makes it more relevant to modern society. The progressive Kai-Sun-Do program is more flexible to practitioners depending on what level they are at and what they are aiming for. Traditional values and discipline are still very important and are encouraged and instilled especially in younger students, however the physical side is greatly emphasized with refined techniques that have been applied and proved. It is evident by the excellent results that students achieve in tournaments and within themselves. We understand that a martial artist does not simply want to learn to punch or kick effectively, but to further gain physical fitness and a higher state of mind and spirit that forms part of the process. This is why we aim for a greater overall experience for all members.

The training regime Unlike most other martial arts schools, Kai-Sun-Do does not stick to just one particular area of martial arts, such as only developing physical techniques or only perfecting kata/forms. Martial arts is truly an art that has evolved and developed over many centuries, almost as a science, hence there are many great strengths to be gained from it if they are utilized effectively. Kai-Sun-Do encourages students to cultivate in all respects of martial art strengths. Yet it is flexible enough to allow individuals to flourish in a particular area in which they excel. This may seem as though the student is restricted only to their existing strengths, however, Kai-Sun-Do encourages the individual to continue developing their skills in all areas in order to advance in all aspects of martial arts.

The general Kai-Sun-Do program aims to help students in developing martial arts skills to the best of their ability by tuition from expert instructors. This includes the refinement of physical training; specifically striking, kicking, blocking techniques and general body movements, such as evasive and counter-striking moves. The mind is perhaps the most important instrument any human posseses. Kai-Sun-Do aims to improve the mind. There is a reason why everything is done the way it is. Everything is explained in a practical sense, which will not only make you understand the concepts of martial arts but will refine one's perspective on life itself. Kai-Sun-Do strives for unity and balance of the mind, body and spirit.

Brief History of founder Kancho Boris Eltman

Born in Odessa, Ukraine 1947. Established first Kyokushin club in Odessa, teaching karate since 1971. Father of 5. Moved to Australia in 1990, opening first Melbourne club in St.Kilda, attracting dozens of students immediately. Teaching the Kyokushin way to thousands of Melbournian students over a 9 year period, until establishing the International Kai-Sun-Do Organisation in 1999.

The meaning behind the emblem

The Kai-Sun-Do emblem was conceived by founder Kancho Boris Eltman. It embodies the virtues of unity between the mind, body and spirit as it relates to martial arts and the martial way of life. The inverted brackets centered around a circle represents the kai-sun symbol, taken from Sanskrit (an ancient Indic language), meaning "unity". The angles of the five pointed star in the centre each exude a ray representing courage, strength, skills, focus and power. This five elements each stand for a particular part of the overall Kai-Sun-Do teaching, respectively, fighting, physical, weaponry, kata/forms and tameshiwari/breaking.