History of Karate

Karate is a Japanese word meaning "empty hands" which indicates that Karate is a kind of martial art that does not
require weapons other than the parts of the body. Originally, it was a method of unarmed self-defense developed in
the Okinawan Islands from various techniques introduced from mainland China, as well as local innovations. In
truth, the origins of karate appear to be somewhat obscure and little is known about the early development of karate
until it appeared in Okinawa. Although its origin is obscure, a popular legend prevails that the evolution of karate
began over a thousand years ago, possibly as early as the 5th BC when Bodhidharma arrived in Shaolin-si in China
from India and taught Zen Buddhism. He also introduced a systematized set of exercises designed to strengthen the
mind and body. This set of exercises allegedly marked the beginning of the Shaolin style of temple boxing.
Bodhidharma's teachings later became the basis for the majority of Chinese martial arts. However, the question of
his contributions to the martial arts and to Zen Buddhism and even of his very existence has been a matter of
controversy among historians and martial arts scholars for many years.
Karate was originally known as 'Kenpo', meaning 'First Law'. From China it crossed over to Okinawa, where known
as 'Te', which consisted mostly of hand movements. In 1923 the Okinawans altered the Chinese character to a
Japanese character. Thus, the meaning changed from 'hands of China' to 'empty hand'. This transition assuredly lea
to a deeper meaning to the art in which the spiritual overcame the physical.

Te continued to develop over the years, primarily in three Okinawan cities: Shuri, Naha and Tomari. Each of these
towns was a center to a different sect of society: kings and nobles, merchants and business people, and farmers and
fishermen, respectively. For this reason, different forms of self-defense developed within each city and subsequently
became known as Shuri-te, Naha-te and Tomari-te. Collectively they were called Okinawa-Te or Tode, 'Chinese
hand'. Gradually, karate was divided into two main groups: Shorin-ryu which developed around Shuri and Tomari
and Shorei-ryu which came from the Naha area. It is important to note, however, that the towns of Shuri, Tomari,
and Naha are only a few miles apart, and that the differences between their arts were essentially ones of emphasis,
not of kind. Beneath these surface differences, both the methods and aims of all Okinawan karate are the same
.Shorin-ryu was quick and linear with natural breathing while Shorei-ryu emphasized steady, rooted movements
with breathing in synchrony with each movement.The Chinese character Tode could also be pronounced 'kara', thus
the name Te was replaced with kara te - jutsu or 'Chinese hand art'' by the Okinawan Masters. This was later
changed to karate-do by Gichin Funakoshi who adopted an alternate meaning for the Chinese character for kara,
'empty'. From this point on the term karate came to mean 'empty hand'. The Do in karate-do means 'way' or 'path',
and is indicative of the discipline and philosophy of karate with moral and spiritual connotations

In the last seven decades, the techniques have been modified into distinct Japanese styles. Today there are four main
styles of karate-do in Japan: Goju-ryu, Shito-ryu, Shotokan, and Wado-ryu:Many. These styles are currently taught
in the world and are often modified into styles more suitable to their own methods of self defense. Thus the art of
karate is constantly undergoing improvement and revision.

In its course of development, Karate has gradually come into prominence as a sport. In 1916, two experts form
Okinawa, Kenwa Mabuni and Gigen Funakoshi introduced their techniques to Japan aiming at promoting Karate as
a sport throughout Japan. As a sport, Karate offers many different levels and types of competition. A typical
tournament would include demonstrations of breaking, weapons use, self defense techniques, tradition and open
forms and the most exciting competition, sparring. Competitive tournaments bring together many different styles of
Karate. 
 What is Shotokan Karate?
Shōtōkan 松濤館流

Shotokan Karate is known for its simplicity and effectiveness. Its techniques are based on the
correct application of body dynamics. One also learns to apply patience, discipline, co-ordination
and balance in balance with the delivery of correct and effective Shotokan techniques. We
emphasise harmonious use of mind and body. At the heart of traditional Shotokan Karate
training is the development of character as well as the conditioning of one's body. In karate-do,
respect for others, calmness, and perfection of character takes priority over physical skills. Even
though Shotokan's techniques can produce very effective results, Shotokan Karate is much more
than a form of fighting. It is a discipline. For some, it is a catalyst that impacts, sharpens and
improves all aspects of their lives.

Shotokan Karate has also become known as the sport with a purpose and might be considered as
the most ideal physical exercise for children and adults of all ages. Shotokan style karate offers
great benefits such as, greater focus, increased self-esteem, increased self-discipline, calmness,
and a more positive attitude toward life, as well as knowledge of self-defence. The main focus of
Shotokan Karate training is the perfection of character.

There are as many reasons to take Shotokan Karate, as there are people who take it. Each
individual has his or her own reason for training in Shotokan Karate. However, three reasons
stand out above the rest.

1. SHOTOKAN KARATE AS A PATH TO SELF-IMPROVEMENT.

Some people take Shotokan Karate as a means to improve themselves.

Shotokan Karate can offer rigorous physical fitness training and a way to
improve speed, power, flexibility, co-ordination and confidence. Shotokan
Karate is also studied by some to enhance inner peace and strength.

2. SHOTOKAN KARATE AS A SPORT.

A great many people take Shotokan Karate as a recreational sport. Some

take it to develop skill and technique (as demonstrated in the floor
exercises, or "Kata"), while others who may enjoy competition, take it for
the sparring (limited contact fighting against an opponent, or "Kumite").
Most people that begin Shotokan Karate training find that they enjoy both
aspects of this sport. In addition to there being regional and national
competitions held throughout the country, the International Olympics
Committee has accepted Shotokan Karate as a future Olympic event.

 
3. SHOTOKAN KARATE FOR SELF-DEFENCE.

Shotokan Karate is a very effective way to counter an attacker. It teaches

techniques to subdue or disable. It conditions the reflexes to react
instinctively if attacked. Best of all, no weapons are needed, so Shotokan
Karate can be used whenever and wherever necessary.

Regardless of your reason for taking Shotokan Karate, the time invested in
it will return a lifetime of benefits.