Karate
Karate is a Japanese Martial Art characterized by striking techniques such as punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes, as well as knife hand strikes. Click here to tell us about your club. Some styles also teach grappling, joint locks, restraints and throws. It emphasizes delivering a concentration of the body’s power at the point and instant of impact. The striking surfaces of the hand are the knuckles and outer edge, while the ball of the foot and heel or the striking surface of the foot. Forearms, knees and elbows are also used to strike with. Originating in Okinawa, it is considered a Japanese style with root in China. The original meaning is “Chinese Hand” and was later altered to “empty hand”. As a means of self defense it has one of the oldest histories, going back hundreds of years. In recent years the methods that were handed down were scientifically studied and evolved to make the most effective use of the various body movements. The Keio University was the first Japanese university to open a dojo and by 1932 all Japanese universities had dojos. After the Second World War servicemen stationed in Okinawa were introduced to this Martial Art and it became popular among them. Gichin Funakoshi known as the Father of Modern Karate wrote his autobiography, Karate-Do: My Way of Life in recognition of the transforming nature of the study. It is practiced for self-perfection, for self defense and for sport. He interpreted the “kara” meaning to “purge oneself of selfish and evil thoughts. For only with a clear mind and conscience can the practitioner understand that knowledge which he receives.” It is a physical art as well as a sport and a form of self defense. It is a study of the muscles and joints and the relationship between movement and balance enabling the student to be prepared both physically and psychologically to defend his/herself. Its highly dynamic style and balanced use of a large number of body muscles develops coordination and agility, providing an excellent all-around exercise. This Martial Art practice relies on various forms (kata), sparring (kumite), attitude (kokoro) and weapons training (kobudo). Although the belt colors started with only three: white, brown and black, each belt possessed several levels. After it became more popularized additional belt colors were introduced.
Do you know of a Karate Club?
Do you have or attend a Karate class that deserves its own web page? Just create it here! Tell us all about it: where, when, who, etc. Why is it unique/significant/important. What are its principles? Are there some events you would like to share?
Click here to visit the Karate Federation website- another window will open
Click here to return to Martial Arts from Karate
Click here to return to the home page
|
