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What is Karate?

Karate is a Japanese martial art and it means empty hand. Karate is an unarmed martial-arts discipline employing kicking, striking, and defensive blocking using arms and legs. This martial arts emphasis is on concentrating as much of the body’s power as possible at the point of impact. Striking surfaces include the hands (particularly the knuckles and the outer edge), ball of the foot, heel, forearm, knee, and elbow. All of these are toughened by practicing blows against padded surfaces or wood. Pine boards up to several inches in thickness can be broken with the bare hands or feet of an expert. Timing, tactics, and spirit, however, are each considered at least as important as physical toughening.

In sport karate and sparring (kumite) in training, blows and kicks are stopped before landing, preferably within an inch of contact. Matches usually last about three minutes, to a decision, if neither contestant has scored a clean “killing” point in the estimation of the judges. Contests of form (kata) are also held, in which single competitors perform a predetermined series of movements simulating defense and counterattack against several opponents. Performances are scored by a panel of judges, as in gymnastics.

What are the different types of Karate?

Goju-ryu is a style of karate that was established in 1930 by Chojun Miyagi who was a student of Kanryo Higaonna. This form is comprised of formidable counter-strike movements in the offensive positions and soft and circular blocks in the defensive positions that resemble jujitsu. It also uses breathing power and a variety of stances that offer soft and hard techniques capable of showing the differences between karate styles.

What are the benefits of Karate?

Martial arts or karate in particular teach self-defense. Building reflexes to stand up to a threat is important for children and adults. Learning self-defense maneuvers is a key skill that is developed by learning karate or other martial arts. When children are confronted by bullies, the techniques they learn in karate give them the ability to defend themselves. It also builds confidence, develops character, encourages self discipline and improves your health.