Reviews

"We welcome this fascinating exploration of the many modern misconceptions about genuine Okinawan karate. The book explains that Okinawan Te was originally developed for the purpose of self-protection but that over the last several decades other purposes were added, namely physical education, recreation, meditation, and sports. It acknowledges that there were good reasons for these additions but strongly suggests that we not confuse them with the genuine intention of the art—as that art is taught at our and other traditional dojos." –Sensei Noel Smith, Kyoshi, 8^th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shorinkan, head coach for the US karate team 1973 to 1978, USA Karate Hall of Fame inductee

"Dr. Bayer has written an extraordinarily insightful book that will assist its readers in their personal growth and understanding of Okinawa’s martial culture.  His passion, curiosity, and finely honed research and analytical skills have resulted in a rare work of substance, enlightenment, and truth." —William (Bill) Hayes, Hanshi, 9^th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shobayashi-Kan, inducted into the Karate Masters’ Hall of Fame and into the American-Okinawan Karate Association Hall of Fame, major in the United States Marine Corps (retired)

"Hermann Bayer’s Analysis of Genuine Karate is extraordinarily interesting and informative. He brings clarity to many of the greatest misconceptions about karate, from cultural traditions and the mind-set of the founding fathers of traditional Okinawan karate to the modern worldwide promulgation of karate for fame and money. He leaves no stone unturned, addressing differences in training methods and goals that could mean the difference between life and death. In this book, Hermann Bayer has his finger on the pulse of authentic and traditional Okinawa karate-do and culture." —Nestor Tadeusz Folta, 8^th Dan Uechi-Ryu, Soke Shubukan, master instructor in the Uechi-Ryu Karate-Do Association, inductee to the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame 1996

"Given the ever-widening gap between the karate practiced in Okinawa and the karate practiced elsewhere around the world, it was perhaps inevitable that a book such as this would be written. More than one man’s opinion, Analysis of Genuine Karate is the result of the author’s methodical academic research. Hermann has consulted widely and sought expert opinion. The result of his research awaits the reader. I have no doubt this book will spark a great many conversations about what is and what isn’t “Genuine Karate.”" —Michael Clarke, author, Kyoshi, 8^th Dan Okinawan Goju-Ryu, author of The Art of Hojo Undo, Shin Gi Tai, and Redemption

"Engaging, enlightening, and informative, this book reflects a love, devotion, dedication, and level of knowledge that is comparable to if not exceeds anything that has been published on the topic by anyone." —Bernard N. Curry, PhD, LCSW, CSOTP, CCTP; university professor

"Doctor Bayer's book will be an excellent addition to the library of anyone interested in the study of karate. He has made good use of his considerable experience training in traditional Okinawan karate and Japanese karate in his examination of their fundamental differences.  His research gives the reader a good look at the historical, social, philosophical, and physical dynamics of the development of karate as it evolved from its origins in Okinawa to its adoption by the culture of mainland Japan." —Raymond (Gene) Adkins, Renshi, 6^th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shorinkan

"Dr. Hermann Bayer’s book on the cultural heritage and influences of Okinawan karate versus sport karate is well researched, well organized and well presented. Hermann’s intelligent, sincere, and thoughtful approach helps both the novice and the experienced karateka “see” the brilliance behind kata and the deep well of potential preserved in the cultural art of Okinawan karate." —Ted Jacobson, 5^th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shorinkan

USA Best Books Award - Finalist - 2021