Osu

What is osu?

"Osu” in the martial arts does not stand for Ohio State University. "Osu!" s a Japanese word used in many martial arts schools, mostly those associated with a Japanese karate style. In the martial arts, it is used in different ways under many different circumstances. Some karate instructors encourage their Western students to use Osu, while others discourage it. In some schools, the term has taken on an almost mystical status.

"Osu!"is seldom heard in Taekwondo schools, but many Taekwondo instructors have studied a style of karate in the past or may be studying one presently, so they may use it in their schools. There is certainly nothing wrong with using the term in a Taekwondo school, unless you are in a school that frowns on anything that is not strictly Korean. The language, terms, and slang of the country where the school is located is used during class, so why not other terms that serve a useful purpose.

The single word “Osu!” represents the ultimate in what the martial arts have to offer. In schools that use it, one who manifests the spirit of "Osu!" in every word, thought, and action may be regarded as wise, brave, and a true martial artist.

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