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What is Karate? Karate is a Japanese word meaning "empty hands" indicating that karate is a martial art that does not require weapons other than the parts of the body, but, also means that the practitioner of karate should strive to empty his/her mind of aggression. Originally, karate was a method of unarmed self-defense developed in the Okinawan Islands from various techniques introduced from mainland China, as well as local innovations. Up until the late 19th century, the various karate techniques were practiced and taught within relatively small regions; i.e. a particular technique would be taught in one village and never revealed to outsiders. After 1900, great interest was shown in teaching karate to larger groups of the general public and certain karate experts developed distinct 'styles'. In the 1920's, an Okinawan school teacher, Gichin Funakoshi, introduced an organized method of karate to Japan, which became immediately popular. Karate is a martial art consisting of punches, kicks, blocks and a small number of throws. It is practiced barefoot, wearing a white suit [gi], with a belt around the waist, denoting the skill level that the student has attained. Karate students (karateka) of all levels practice the basics - kicks, blocks and punches, both singly and in combinations. This basic training improves their execution of technique, builds stamina, and improves their stance. Karateka also practice combined movements called kata, which are set sequences of attacks and defenses against opponents from all directions. Most of the time these kata are practiced alone. Fitness, Stamina, Discipline, and Control are key to the traditional styles of Karate.
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