Karate is a martial art developed in the Ryukyu Kingdom. It developed from the indigenous Ryukyuan martial arts under the influence of Chinese martial arts, particularly Fujian White Crane.

History of karate

The first form of karate originated around 500 years ago, on the Japanese island of Okinawa. Although there isn’t written evidence, many people believe karate was created when King Shoha, who was ruler at the time, banned weapons on the island in order to prevent war. People began using hand-to-hand combat to defend themselves.

Karate has both Japanese and Chinese influences, as the two cultures were exposed to each other. The first known Okinawan karate master, Funakoshi Gichin, was born in 1868 and dedicated his whole life to spreading karate teachings across Japan. His followers picked up where he left off and established the Japan Karate Association in 1949 for promoting the martial arts style. The first dojo (karate training space) was opening in the U.S. in 1945. Over the years, karate spread throughout the world and different styles began to emerge.

Karate is constantly evolving as a martial arts form. There are a few different styles that have branched off, but are still considered karate. Today, the most common and distinct styles are:

gōju-ryū

shitō-ryū

shotokan

wadō-ryū

The World Karate Federation provides universal guidelines for practicing the sport and competing at a professional level.

Weight loss and self-defense

Even though karate isn’t an aerobic exercise, it’s vigorous enough to support weight loss.

Kishimoto-di’s emphasis on core engagement makes it an excellent choice for weight loss, since it builds muscle as well as burning fat during vigorously performed katas.

All types of karate are vehicles of self-defense. Kyokushin and Ashihara may be your best choices for learning effective, hand-to-hand combat moves, should the need ever arise for you to use them

Karate is a type of martial art which can be used for self-defense. It’s also become popular for its emphasis on physical and mental discipline.

While some forms of karate utilize weaponry, it’s best known as a weaponless way to defend oneself in battle.

Karate schools, or ryus, are often highly influenced by one master or inventor who has put his or her stamp on the art.

All types of karate include katas, which are groups of choreographed movements that often include kicks and punches. Katas are memorized and practiced solo or in groups prior to sparring with opponents.

1. Shotokan

Shotokan karate is one of the most well-known types.

Defining features

• Shotokan karate utilizes both the upper and the lower body to produce punches and kicks which are linear and forceful.

2. Goju-ryu

Goju-ryu karate is based on the complimentary principles of hard and soft. Disciples learn techniques that include hard, closed fist punches and soft, open hand strikes.

3. Uechi-ryu

Uechi-ryu karate was founded by Kanbun Uechi in Okinawa during the early 1900s. His style of karate was highly influenced by ancient Chinese fighting systems.

Defining features

upright stances

circular blocking techniques

open-handed strikes

low kicks

4. Wado-ryu

Wado translates into “way of harmony” or “harmonious path” in Japanese. Founded by Hironori Otsuka in 1939, this form of Japanese karate includes some elements of jiujitsu.

Defining features

Wado-ryu focuses on evading strikes.

It teaches students to avoid hard contact during sparring by shifting the body and reducing the full force of an opponent’s blows.

Punches and kicks are employed during counterattacks.

Wado-ryu emphasizes peacefulness of mind and spiritual discipline.

Its ultimate goal is to sharpen the mind of the practitioner, so they can better intuit their opponent’s moves.