What is Karate?

What is karate?

Karate is basically a system of unarmed self defence based on a range of punches, kicks and strikes alongside an equally diverse range of blocks, parries and counters. Many such systems have evolved and developed in the Far East over the centuries. Karate is a Japanese art and our particular style (Shotokan) originated in Okinawa.

So, lots of kicking and punching then?

Not exactly. Although obviously at the core of the class, a training session will also encompass kata and kumite training. Kata are pre-arranged sequences of movement, supposedly representing defence against more then one opponent and are in themselves superb for physical conditioning. Advanced kata training will also cover disassembling a kata into its component parts and practice applications with another student. Here you will find there are also throws, sweep, grabs and trapping techniques in karate. Kumite is sparring with a partner.

Kumite? That’s fighting isn’t it?

Yes it is, but in the first instance it is strictly controlled with the attack, block and counter attack known in advance. And it is non-contact. Free style sparring is not undertaken until almost a black belt. This normally takes about 3.5 – 4 years and again is highly controlled and only using a limited range of techniques. (Many techniques are simply too dangerous to use in this context, were contact to happen accidentally)

I don’t fancy fighting all the time.

You won’t be. Clearly you cannot avoid training with a partner some of the time but you will only be ‘fighting’ if you choose at a later stage to enter competitions. This is not compulsory although it will certainly contribute to a greater skill and understanding and it is part of the grading examination. Again, for junior grades this is a pre-arranged, non-contact demonstration of skill.  But let’s not get too focussed on fighting. Karate is a martial art and has many benefits.

Such as? I will be able to defend myself, right?

Of course you will learn (and practice seemingly unendingly!) self defence techniques. But it would be wrong to get the idea you will somehow become invincible. Karate is a way by which one can improve body and mind. You will certainly get fitter, improve overall body condition, balance, co-ordination and posture. In addition you will also develop greater respect, self confidence and determination. Kata training for example, is considered at the highest level as ‘moving meditation’. It is as much an exercise in mental concentration as physical exertion. One thing for sure, you will never stop learning about yourself, your abilities and those of others.