NinTai is a dynamic Japanese term that must not only become a part of our karate training but become a part of our lives as well. The simple definition of NinTai is to persevere; however, the Japanese characters have a much greater meaning than this simple translation.

NinTai is an adherence to a course of action, belief, or purpose without giving way. Perseverance, persistence, tenacity, steadfastness and patience all define NinTai. Each of these conveys a sense of endurance in the pursuit of a desired end.

Perseverance suggests continuing strength or patience in dealing with something arduous. It particularly implies withstanding difficulty or resistance.

Persistence, usually but not always unfavorable, implies dogged resolve in dealing with others and hence often a willful insistence by holding firmly to a purpose or undertaking despite obstacles, warning or setbacks.

Tenacity means tough, aggressive persistence, and accents will power. Whereas perseverance and persistence largely apply to striving for a goal, tenacity basically denotes holding on to something.

Steadfastness is moral in connotation and implies unswerving adherence to principles, usually in the face of opposition.

Patience is the habit of enduring without complaint, becoming over anxious or looking for quick results. It is uncomplaining steadiness in accomplishing a task.

Karate is an exact art and its techniques can not be used haphazardly or they may prove to be worthless. Perfection of technique is the key to successful training and this can only come from continually striving to perform to the best of one's ability.

There are times when training becomes confusing, times when training is physically demanding, times when there are injuries and there will be other things that take away from our ability to perform and practice to the fullest. No matter what the adversity, we must continue on the path forward. Perseverance is the will for striving and our will drives us to succeed in all our endeavors. It is the rational mind that makes a choice and directs the energies in carrying out its determinations.

This type of training in karate becomes a habit that spills over into our daily lives. Everything that we strive to do will take on a new meaning if we just keep trying.

NinTai; perseverance; to persist or remain constant to a purpose, idea, or task in the face of obstacles or discouragement; to never give up!