Karate History

Through Karate is often associated with Japanese Martial Arts, its true origin dwells in Okinawan combat techniques and Southern Chinese martial arts. It was introduced in Japan as late as 1921 and is basically a mixture of both these arts. During this period, Karate was simply known as "TE", or hand, as called by the Okinawans.  Chinese influence is evident in the original symbol for karate the "Tang Hand" or "Chinese Hand".  There were no specified or concrete Karate styles in the early days and simply generalized as Shuri - te, Naha - te and Tomari - te, named after the these cities in which  they were formed.  Each of these citites had its unique, individual methods, principles and traditions of Karate.

The introduction, popularization and modernization of karate to Japan are mainly credited to Funakoski, an Okinawan master who venerably regarded by many practitioners as The Father of Modern Karate.  Other prominent Karate experts in this time include Miyagi Chojun, Kenwa Mabiuni, Motobu Choki and Choshin Chibaba. Prior to the Second World War, Japan started introducing Karate as a subject in schools. Also, most often soldiers were trained in this discipline. During that period, many universities began introducing Karate club programs, due to wish there arose many competitions and varied styles. Due to the American military occupation in Japan and Okinawa after the Second World War, coupled with Japanese immigration to the United States, Karate became popular in the West.

Volatile combat techniques such as punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes, and open hand methods are stressed upon in Karate. Other features of this discipline include, grappling, joint manipulations, locks, restraints, throwing, and vital point striking. Karate training is divided into three main sections: Kihon refers to the study of basic techniques, movements and components, Kata or 'form', a fixed sequence of moves, is a series of movements and techniques linked together by the combinative values that the kata expresses, Kumite or 'sparring' evolves from precise kata to open attack and defence.

The Karate uniform is white and comprises of the Kimono (shirt), Keikogi or Dogi (pants) and a belt (coloured or white), a combination was introduce by Jigoro Kano, the originator of Judo. The colour of the belt is dependant on the rank and expertise of a practitioner. In accordance with frequently held principles, white belts are for beginners, and black for the highest rank. This, however, may differ from one association to another. Each rank may also have subdivisions of its own even if the colour of the belt is similar.

Variations and Styles:Styles of Karate can be largely classified into Full Body Karate and Traditional Karate. Traditional styles are those that developed in the period of the early 20th century and consist of variants such as Goju-ryu, Wado-ryu, Shito-ryu Shotokan, Shindo Jinen Ryu, and Kushin-ryu. Full contact karate includes styles such as and Kansuiryu Kyokushin-kaikan. Offshoots of the various styles have sprung up creating unique styles. Although the concepts remain universal, each demonstration differs from one another.