About Karate

Karate was originally developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi (1868–1957) and his son Gigo (Yoshitaka) Funakoshi (1906–1945). The word Karate (Kara-Te) literally translates to 'Empty Hand', meaning that Karate can be defined as a weaponless means of self defence using parts of the body in a variety of techniques to their maximum advantage. Karate is generally described as a martial art.

The practice of Karate has three main areas:

Kihon (basics)
Kata (forms)
Kumite (sparring)

As a beginner, the student is given instructions in a basic manner until the techniques become more fluid and natural so that they are able to perform the moves without instruction. Once progression is seen to be achieved by the student they will progress towards the more intricate and difficult kata's and eventually starting to become involved in kumite.

As a result of continued and regular practice, the student will develop better stamina, technique and coordination to continue through the belts and as they progress, they will have a greater understanding that their learning of Karate is only just beginning. the student, no matter what level, never stops learning as there are always further techniques and understanding to perfect the art of Karate.

“The ultimate aim of karate lies not in victory nor defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants”

- Master Gichin Funakoshi

As with all physical endeavors, technique is foremost allowing the trained student to coordinate the body as well as the mind to work together. It is therefore not the possession of physical strength that allows the user to over power a would be attacker but their ability to focus the mind and the body but not necessarily in a show of strength, simple words will often relinquish a situation from becoming confrontational.