Karate
Karate is a
Japanese Martial art with many different levels of training. It’s considered widely as a sport, art of self-defense, and an art. While there are many extensive physical aspects of this martial art, it also incorporates psychological elements and leadership.
The practice of karate relies on different forms, patterns, and interpretations. Techniques employ kata (forms), kumite (sparring), kokoro (attitude), and kobudo (weapons training). Kata is a series of movements that demonstrate psychical principles of a combat attack. Kumite employs grappling, punching, and kicking in a competitive environment, most notably: tournaments . Kokoro an integral part of Karate, as it’s believed to be it’s center. Without heart and character, you will not be self-improved through this martial art. Lastly, kobudo refers to training of traditional weaponry.
Although Karate is now considered a sport by many, it was introduced as an art of self-defense. At that time, only three obi-belts were used in Japan as a system of rank. The colors were white, brown, and black. Each belt color consisted of several levels. It was only after Karate became so popularized and widespread that additional colors of obi were introduced.
In 1936, after some of the highest level martial arts masters met together, they announced the introduction of karate, which originated in Okinawa. These masters were: Chojun, Chomo Hanashiro, Kentsu Yabu, Chotoku Kyan, Genwa Nakasone, Choshin Chibana, Choryo Maeshiro and Shinpan Shiroma. Little did these men known what the future held for Karate, including it’s induction into the Olympics and it’s integral part of popular culture.