What is Karate?

 

Karate is a martial art that originated from the island of Okinawa, and has strong and established historical and cultural roots. 

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It is a martial art known for its focus on striking techniques, although it also incorporates, to a lesser degree, the use of grappling and throwing techniques.  

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The term 'Karate' is usually translated as 'Empty Hand', highlighting its emphasis on the use of one's bare hands and feet for self-defense.

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Historically though, 'Karate' was first used to refer to a broad range of martial techniques that originated from Southern China, and was practiced on Okinawa, which was situated in the East China Sea between both Japan and China.

 

This is because a far older reading of 'Karate' actually meant 'Tang Hand', or 'China Hand', thus highlighting its martial roots.

 

Today, however, Karate is commonly referred to as a Japanese martial art as its international popularity grew after the end of the Second World War, after American soldiers first encountered it in Japan and subsequently introduced it to the West in North America and Europe.

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Although its historical origins are roots in fighting and conflict, long-term practitioners of Karate today treat it as a way of life where one can continue to train and strengthen one's body rather than looking for violence.

 

That is why Karate is also be referred to as a 'martial way', where constant practice is a way of gaining a better understanding of oneself and even possible strive to become a better person.

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What are the benefits of Karate?

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The potential benefits of are many. First and foremost, regular practice in karate can play a significant role in one's overall cardiovascular and muscular health. It can contribute to improvements for a person's general flexibility, reflexes and co-ordination.

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At the same time, dedicated  and regular practice and study of karate for several years may also enable someone to develop a certain amount of self-defense skills. 

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Taken as an art form for self expression, the practice of karate also provides one an opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills that have longstanding historical roots in Chinese, Japanese and Okinawan culture. One can get a better understanding of these three cultures that karate stemmed from. 

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Why should I take up Karate?

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If you are looking for an activity or hobby that is steeped in tradition, culture and history that also enables you to get good exercise and potentially pick skills for self-defense, karate may be what you are looking for.

 

At the same time, those who are looking for meaningful involvement in an art form that requires a lifetime of commitment and study, karate is certainly for you.