Karate (空手)
Hanashiro Chomo
Also known as	Karate-dō (空手道)
Focus	Striking
Hardness	full contact
Country of origin	Ryūkyū Kingdom
Creator	Sakukawa Kanga; Matsumura Sokon; Itosu Anko; Gichin Funakoshi
Parenthood	Chinese martial arts, indigenous martial arts of Ryukyu Islands (Naha-te, Shuri-te, Tomari-te)
Olympic Sport	No

Karate (空手, Karate^?) (listen (help·info)) or karate-do (空手道, karate-do^?) is a martial art developed in the Ryukyu Islands from indigenous fighting methods^[1][2] and Chinese kenpō. A strike is an attack with an inanimate object such as a Weapon, or with a part of the human body intended to cause an effect upon an opponent or to simply cause harm to The Ryūkyū Kingdom ( Ryukyuan: ja 琉球國 rūchū－kuku, 琉球王国 ryūkyū-ō-koku) liúqiúguó) was an independent kingdom which was an Okinawan martial artist who played a major role in the development of Te, the precursor to modern Karate. was one of the original Karate masters of Okinawa. His life is reported variously as (c is considered by many the father of modern Karate, although this title is also often given to Gichin Funakoshi because the latter spread karate throughout Japan Gichin Funakoshi (船越 義珍 Funakoshi Gichin, November 10 1868 – April 26 1957) was the creator of Shotokan Kung fu and wushu are popular terms that have become synonymous with Chinese Martial arts. Martial arts are systems of codified practices and traditions of training for Combat. The Ryukyu Islands, in Japanese called the (literally Southwest Islands are a chain of Japanese islands in the western Pacific Ocean at the eastern limit Okinawan martial arts refers to the Martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island, most notably Karate, Tegumi, Okinawan martial arts refers to the Martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island, most notably Karate, Tegumi, Okinawan martial arts refers to the Martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island, most notably Karate, Tegumi, A (also known as Michi in Japanese, see also Chinese usage Tao) or "Way" is any one of a number of spiritual or martial disciplines A (also known as Michi in Japanese, see also Chinese usage Tao) or "Way" is any one of a number of spiritual or martial disciplines Martial arts are systems of codified practices and traditions of training for Combat. The Ryukyu Islands, in Japanese called the (literally Southwest Islands are a chain of Japanese islands in the western Pacific Ocean at the eastern limit Kung fu and wushu are popular terms that have become synonymous with Chinese Martial arts. is the name of several Martial arts. The word kenpō is a Japanese translation of the Chinese word " quánfǎ. ^[1][2] It is primarily a striking art using punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes and open-handed techniques such as knife-hands and ridge-hands. Grappling, locks, restraints, throws, and vital point strikes are taught in some styles. Grappling refers to the gripping handling and controlling of an opponent without the use of striking, typically through the application of various Grappling holds meaning "vital point art" is a term used in Japanese martial arts which may refer to any of various systems for attacking vulnerable areas weak points Pressure ^[3] A karate practitioner is called a karateka. is the Japanese word for a practitioner of Karate. "Bydefinition karate is a martial art and a karateka is an artist amartial artist

Practice

Karate can be practiced as budo, as a sport, as a combat sport, or as self defense training. is a Japanese term describing Martial arts. In English it is used almost exclusively in reference to Japanese martial arts. Sport is an Activity that is governed by a set of rules or Customs and often engaged in competitively A combat sport (also known as a combative sport) is a competitive Contact sport where two combatants fight against each other using certain rules of engagement typically Self-defense (or self-defence &mdash see spelling differences) is the act of defending oneself one's property or the well-being of another from physical harm Traditional karate places emphasis on self development (budo). ^[4] Modern Japanese style training emphasizes the psychological elements incorporated into a proper kokoro (attitude) such as perseverance, fearlessness, virtue, and leadership skills. Sport karate places emphasis on exercise and competition. Weapons (kobudō) is important training activity in some styles.

Karate training is commonly divided into kihon (basics or fundamentals), kata (forms), and kumite (sparring). is a Japanese term meaning "basics" or "fundamentals For other uses see Kata (disambiguation. is a Japanese word describing detailed choreographed patterns of movements practiced either solo or Kumite (組手 means Sparring, and is one of the three main sections of Karate training along with kata and Kihon.

See also: Okinawan kobudō

See also: Japanese budō concepts

Kihon (Basics)

Choki Motobu in Naihanchi-dachi, one of the basic karate stances

Main article: Kihon

Karate styles place varying importance on kihon. Okinawan kobudō (古武道 also known as Ryūkyū Kobujutsu Koryū, or just as Kobudō is a Japanese term that can be translated as " old martial Japanese martial arts refers to the enormous variety of Martial arts native to Japan. The Okinawan Karateka, younger brother of Karateka Choyu Motobu, was born in Akahira Village in Shuri Okinawa. is a Japanese term meaning "basics" or "fundamentals Typically this is performance in unison of a technique or a combination of techniques by a group of karateka. Kihon may also be prearranged drills in smaller groups or in pairs.

Kata (Forms)

Main article: Karate kata

Kata (型:かた) means literally "shape" or "model. Kata ( 型 or 形) (literally "form" is a Japanese word describing detailed patterns of movements practiced either solo or in pairs " Kata is a formalized sequence of movements which represent various attack and defense postures. These postures are based on idealized combat applications.

Some kata use low and wide stances. This practice develops leg strength, correct posture, and gracefulness. Vigorous arm movements enhance cardiovascular fitness and upper body strength. Kata vary in number of movements and difficulty. The longer kata require the karateka to learn many complex movements. Diligent training and correct mindfulness lead to real understanding of combat principles.

Kata were developed before literacy was commonplace in Okinawa or China. is one of Japan 's southern prefectures, and consists of hundreds of the Ryukyu Islands in a chain over 1000 km long which extends southwest from Kyūshū China ( Wade-Giles ( Mandarin) Chung¹kuo² is a cultural region, an ancient Civilization, and depending on perspective a National Physical routines were a logical way to preserve this type of knowledge. The various moves have multiple interpretations and applications. Language interpreting or interpretation is the intellectual activity of facilitating oral and sign-language communication either simultaneously or consecutively between two Because the applicability for actual self-defense is so flexible there is no definitively correct way to interpret all kata. That is why only high ranking practitioners are qualified to judge adequate form for their own style. Some of the criteria for judging the quality of a performance are: Absence of missteps; correct beginning and especially ending; crispness and smoothness; correct speed and power; confidence; and knowledge of application. Kata with the same name are often performed differently in other styles of karate. Kata are taught with minor variations among schools of the same style. Even the same instructor will teach a particular kata slightly differently as the years pass.

To attain a formal rank the karateka must demonstrate competent performance of specific required kata for that level. The Japanese terminology for grades or ranks is commonly used. Requirements for examinations vary among schools.

Kumite (Sparring)

Main article: Kumite

Sparring in Karate is called kumite (組手:くみて). Kumite (組手 means Sparring, and is one of the three main sections of Karate training along with kata and Kihon. Sparring is a form of Training common to many Martial arts. Although the precise form varies it is essentially relatively 'free-form' fighting with enough rules It literally means "meeting of hands. " Kumite is practiced both as a sport and as self-defense training.

Levels of physical contact during sparring vary considerably. Full contact karate has several variants. Knockdown karate (such as Kyokushin) uses full power techniques to bring an opponent to the ground. is a style of stand-up, Full contact karate, founded in 1964 by who was born under the name Choi Yong-I (최영의 Kickboxing variants ( for example K-1) win by knockout. K-1 is a Combat sport that combines stand up techniques from Muay Thai, Karate, Taekwondo, Savate, San shou Sparring in armour (bogu kumite) allows full power techniques with some safety. Bogu Kumite (armored fighting is a form of training used in some Okinawan Kempo styles of Karate. Sport kumite is free or structured with no-contact or light contact and points are awarded by a referee.

In structured kumite (Yakusoku - prearranged), two participants perform a choreographed series of techniques with one striking while the other blocks. The form ends with one devastating technique (Hito Tsuki).

In free sparring (Jiyu Kumite), the two participants have a free choice of scoring techniques. The allowed techniques and contact level are usually determined by the age, rank and sex of the participants. Depending upon style, take-downs and sweeps are also allowed. A takedown is a Martial arts and Combat sports term for a technique that involves off-balancing an opponent and bringing him or her to the ground typically with the A sweep is the name used of two types of Martial arts techniques a throw when standing or reversal or position when on the ground

Free sparring is performed in a marked or closed area. The bout runs for a fixed time (2 to 3 minutes. ) The time can run continuously (Iri Kume) or be stopped for referee judgment. Points are awarded based on the criteria: good form, sporting attitude, vigorous application, awareness/zanshin, good timing and correct distance. Zanshin (残心 is a term used in the Japanese martial arts. It refers to a state of awareness – of relaxed alertness ^[5]

Dojo Kun

Main article: Dojo kun

In the bushidō tradition dojo kun is a set of guidelines for kareteka to follow. Dojo kun is a Japanese martial arts term literally meaning Dojo ( training hall) rules These guidelines apply both in the dojo (training hall) and in everyday life. A is a Japanese term which literally means "place of the Way"

Conditioning

Okinawan karate uses supplementary training known as hojo undo. Hojo undō (補助運動 is a Japanese language term translated as "supplementary exercises" that refers to the conditioning exercises specifically used in This utilizes simple equipment made of wood and stone. The makiwara is a striking post. Use The makiwara is used by karate practitioners to practice strikes in much the same way as a boxer uses a heavy bag The nigiri game is a large jar used for developing grip strength. Hojo undō (補助運動 is a Japanese language term translated as "supplementary exercises" that refers to the conditioning exercises specifically used in These supplementary exercises are designed to increase strength, stamina, speed, and muscle coordination. Physical strength is the ability of a person or animal to exert Force on physical objects using muscles. Endurance (also called sufferance) is the ability for humans to exert themselves through aerobic or Anaerobic exercise for relatively long periods of time Speed is the rate of motion, or equivalently the rate of change in position often expressed as Distance d traveled per unit of Gross motor coordination addresses the Gross motor skills walking running climbing jumping crawling lifting one's head sitting up etc ^[6] Sport Karate emphasises aerobic exercise, anaerobic exercise, power, agility, flexibility, and stress management. Aerobic exercise refers to Exercise that involves or improves oxygen consumption by the body Anaerobic exercise is exercise intense enough to trigger anaerobic metabolism. In Physics, power (symbol P) is the rate at which work is performed or energy is transmitted or the amount of energy required or expended for Agility is the ability to change the body's position, and requires a combination of Balance, coordination, Speed, Reflexes, and Flexibility refers to the absolute range of movement in a Joint or series of joints that is attainable in a momentary effort with the help of a partner or a piece Stress management encompasses techniques intended to equip a person with effective coping mechanisms for dealing with psychological stress, with stress defined as a person's ^[7] All practices vary depending upon the school and the teacher.

Sport

Gichin Funakoshi (船越 義珍) said, "There are no contests in karate. "^[8] In pre-World War II Okinawa, kumite was not part of karate training. ^[9] Shigeru Egami relates that, in 1940, some karateka were ousted from their dojo because they adopted sparring after having learned it in Tokyo. was a student of the founder of modern Karate - Gichin Funakoshi; and later the founder of the style he named Shōtōkai. ^[10]

International competition is well organized. The World Karate Federation (WKF) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as being responsible for karate competition in the Olympic games. The World Karate Federation, or WKF, was formed in 1990 from former WUKO (World Union of Karate-do Organizations members and is the largest The WKF has developed common rules governing all styles. The national WKF organisations coordinate with their respective National Olympic Committees. National Olympic Committees (or NOCs) are the national constituents of the worldwide Olympic movement

Karate does not have 2012 Olympic status. The Olympic Games is an international Multi-sport event established for both summer and winter games In the 117th IOC Session (July 2005), karate received more than half of the votes, but not the two-thirds majority needed to become an official Olympic sport. The Olympic sports comprise all the Sports contested in the Summer and Winter Olympic Games.

WKF karate competition has two disciplines: sparring (kumite) and empty-handed forms (kata) Competitors may enter either as individuals or as part of a team. Kata ( 型 or 形) (literally "form" is a Japanese word describing detailed patterns of movements practiced either solo or in pairs Evaluation for kata and kobudo is performed by a panel of judges, whereas sparring is judged by a head referee, usually with assistant referees at the side of the sparring area. Sparring matches are typically divided by weight, age, gender, and experience.

There are other regional, national, and international organizations that hold competitions. The WKF accepts only one organization per country. The World Union of Karate-do Organizations (WUKO)^[11] offers different styles and federations a world body they may join, without having to compromise their style or size. The WUKO accepts more than one federation or association per country.

Rank

A young student graduates up a rank in belt in front of his dojo. A is a Japanese term which literally means "place of the Way"

In 1924 Gichin Funakoshi founder of Shotokan Karate adopted the Dan system from judo founder Jigoro Kano^[12] using a rank scheme with a limited set of belt colors. is a school of Karate, developed from various Martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi (1868–1957 and his son Yoshitaka Funakoshi (1906–1945 meaning "gentle way" is a modern Japanese martial art ( Gendai budō) and Combat sport, that originated in Japan in the late was the founder of Judo. Judo was the first Japanese martial art to gain widespread international recognition and the first to become an official Olympic sport meaning "gentle way" is a modern Japanese martial art ( Gendai budō) and Combat sport, that originated in Japan in the late Other Okinawan teachers also adopted this practice. In the Kyū/Dan system the beginner grades start with a higher numbered kyū (e. is a Japanese term used in Martial arts, chadō, Ikebana, go, Shogi and in other similar g. , 9th Kyū) and progress toward a lower numbered kyū. The Dan progression continues from 1st Dan (Shodan, or 'beginning dan') to the higher dan grades. Kyū-grade karateka are referred to as "color belt" or mudansha ("ones without dan"). Dan-grade karateka are referred to as yudansha (holders of dan rank). Yudansha typically wear a black belt. The term Black belt has become widely known as way to describe an expert in Martial arts where a practitioner's level is often marked by the color of the belt Requirements of rank differ among styles, organizations, and schools. Kyū ranks stress stance, balance, and coordination. Karate has many different Stances each used to create power flexibility and movement Equilibrioception or sense of balance is one of the physiological Senses It helps prevent Humans and Animals from falling over when Speed and power are added at higher grades. Speed is the rate of motion, or equivalently the rate of change in position often expressed as Distance d traveled per unit of In Physics, a force is whatever can cause an object with Mass to Accelerate. Minimum age and time in rank are factors affecting promotion. Testing consists of demonstration of techniques before a panel of examiners. This will vary by school, but testing may include everything learned at that point, or just new information. The demonstration is an application for new rank (shinsa) and may include kata, bunkai, self-defense, routines, tameshiwari (breaking), and/or kumite (sparring). For other uses see Kata (disambiguation. is a Japanese word describing detailed choreographed patterns of movements practiced either solo or literally meaning "analysis" or "disassembly" is a term used in Japanese martial arts referring to the application of fighting techniques extracted from the Breaking is a Martial arts skill that is used in competition demonstration and testing Kumite (組手 means Sparring, and is one of the three main sections of Karate training along with kata and Kihon. Black belt testing may also include a written examination.

Philosophy

Gichin Funakoshi interpreted the "kara" of Karatedo to mean "to purge [oneself] of selfish and evil thoughts. For only with a clear mind and conscience can [the practitioner] understand that [knowledge] which he receives. " Funakoshi believed that one should be "inwardly humble and outwardly gentle. " Only by behaving humbly can one be open to Karate's many lessons. This is done by listening and being receptive to criticism. He considered courtesy of prime importance. He said that "Karate is properly applied only in those rare situations in which one really must either down another or be downed by him. " Funakoshi did not consider it unusual for a devotee to use Karate in a real physical confrontation no more than perhaps once in a lifetime. He stated that Karate practitioners must "never be easily drawn into a fight. " It is understood that one blow from a real expert could mean death. It is clear that those who misuse what they have learned bring dishonor upon themselves. He promoted the character trait of personal conviction. In "time of grave public crisis, one must have the courage. . . to face a million and one opponents. " He taught that indecisiveness is a weakness. ^[13]

Etymology

Hypothetically, any unarmed combat system could accurately be called "karate" since the Japanese phrase literally means "empty hand. " This is not necessarily an acceptable conclusion. To separate fact from fancy requires understanding issues of nationalism, lineage, primacy, and philosophy. The term nationalism can refer to an Ideology, a sentiment, a form of Culture, or a Social movement that focuses on the Nation

Chinese Hand

Karate was originally written as Chinese hand in kanji. are the Chinese characters that are used in the modern Japanese logographic writing system along with Hiragana (ひらがな 平仮名 Katakana It was later changed to a homophone meaning empty hand. A homophone is a word that is pronounced the same as another word but differs in meaning The word karate was used for some time orally before it was first written. The original use of the word karate in print is attributed to Anko Itosu. is considered by many the father of modern Karate, although this title is also often given to Gichin Funakoshi because the latter spread karate throughout Japan He wrote it with the kanji (Chinese characters) 唐手:からて (Tang Dynasty hand) rather than the present usage of 空手:からて (empty hand). are the Chinese characters that are used in the modern Japanese logographic writing system along with Hiragana (ひらがな 平仮名 Katakana A Chinese character, also known as a Han character ( is a Logogram used in writing Chinese (hanzi Japanese ( The Tang Dynasty ( Middle Chinese: dhɑng (June 18 618&ndashJune 4 907 was an imperial dynasty of China preceded by the Sui Dynasty and followed by The Tang Dynasty of China ended in AD 907. The Tang Dynasty ( Middle Chinese: dhɑng (June 18 618&ndashJune 4 907 was an imperial dynasty of China preceded by the Sui Dynasty and followed by The kanji representing it remained in use in Okinawa as a way to refer to China generally. ^[14] Thus the word karate was originally a way of expressing "Chinese hand," or "martial art from China. "

Since there are no written records it is not known definitely whether the kara in karate was originally written with the character 唐 meaning China or the character 空 meaning empty. During the time when admiration for China and things Chinese was at its height in the Ryukus it was the custom to use the former character when referring to things of fine quality. . .

It should be noted that use of the written character is not necessarily linked to the origins of karate.

Empty Hand

The original use of "Chinese hand," "Tang hand," “Chinese fist,” or "Chinese techniques" (depending on interpretation of 唐手) reflects the documented Chinese influence on karate. The Tang Dynasty ( Middle Chinese: dhɑng (June 18 618&ndashJune 4 907 was an imperial dynasty of China preceded by the Sui Dynasty and followed by Kung fu and wushu are popular terms that have become synonymous with Chinese Martial arts. The first documented use of a homophone of the logogram pronounced kara by replacing the character meaning Tang Dynasty (唐 から) with the character meaning empty (空 から) took place in in Karate Kumite. A homophone is a word that is pronounced the same as another word but differs in meaning A logogram, or logograph, is a Grapheme which represents a word or a Morpheme (a meaningful unit of language A Chinese character, also known as a Han character ( is a Logogram used in writing Chinese (hanzi Japanese ( The Tang Dynasty ( Middle Chinese: dhɑng (June 18 618&ndashJune 4 907 was an imperial dynasty of China preceded by the Sui Dynasty and followed by This is a book by Hanashiro Chomo (1869–1945) which was published in August 1905. Year 1905 ( MCMV) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common year starting In the early 20th century Japan did not have good relations with China. In 1932 Japan attacked China and occupied its northern territory. Year 1932 ( MCMXXXII) was a Leap year starting on Friday of the Gregorian calendar. At that time referring to Chinese origins of karate was considered politically incorrect. ^[15]

In 1933, the Okinawan art of karate was recognized as a Japanese martial art by the Japanese Martial Arts Committee known as the "Butoku Kai". Until 1935, "karate" was written as "唐手" (Chinese hand). But in 1935, the masters of the various styles of Okinawan karate conferred to decide a new name for their art. They decided to call their art "karate" written in Japanese characters as "空手" (empty hand). ^[16]

The Way and The Hand

Another nominal development is the addition of dō (道:どう) to the end of the word karate. A (also known as Michi in Japanese, see also Chinese usage Tao) or "Way" is any one of a number of spiritual or martial disciplines Dō is a suffix having numerous meanings including road, path, route, and way. It is used in many martial arts that survived Japan's transition from feudal culture to modern times. It implies that these arts are not just fighting systems but contain spiritual elements when promoted as disciplines. In this context dō is usually translated as "the way of. " Examples are aikido (合気道:あいきどう), judo (柔道:じゅうどう), and kendo (剣道:けんどう). is a Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba as a synthesis of his martial studies philosophy and religious beliefs or " way of the sword " is the Japanese and South Korean martial art of sword-fighting Thus karatedō is more than just empty hand techniques. It is The Way Of The Empty Hand.

History

Okinawa

See also: Okinawan martial arts

Karate began as a fighting system known as "ti" (or "te") among the pechin class of the Ryukyuans. Okinawan martial arts refers to the Martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island, most notably Karate, Tegumi, Okinawan martial arts refers to the Martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island, most notably Karate, Tegumi, The is the Okinawan Ryukyuan equivalent of the Japanese Samurai. Ryukyuans ( Japanese: 琉球民族 Ryūkyū minzoku; Japanese Gairaigo based on Uchinaguchi ウチナンチュ Uchinanchu) are the Indigenous During the Taira-Minamoto war, some samurai from the Minamoto clan arrived in Okinawa from Japan and became allies with the Ryukyuan nobles. The ( 1180 &ndash 1185) were a Conflict between the Taira and Minamoto clans and in late- Heian period Japan. is the term for the military nobility of Pre-industrial Japan. was one of the honorary surnames bestowed by the Emperors of Japan of the Heian Period ( 794 – 1185 AD on those of their sons and grandsons who were not Okinawa Island (沖縄本島 Okinawa-hontō, or 沖縄島 Okinawa-jima) is the largest of the Ryukyu Islands, and is home to Naha, the capital For a topic outline on this subject see List of basic Japan topics. The samurai may have taught their new allies the martial art of Daito-ryu aiki-jujutsu which the pechin could have combined with their own fighting system. originally called, is a Japanese martial art that first became widely known in the early 20th century under the Headmastership of Takeda Sokaku ^[17][18] After trade relationships were established with the Ming dinasty China by Chuzan King Satto in 1372, many forms of Chinese martial arts were introduced to Ryukyu Islands by the visitors from China, mainly Fujian Province. Kung fu and wushu are popular terms that have become synonymous with Chinese Martial arts. The Ryukyu Islands, in Japanese called the (literally Southwest Islands are a chain of Japanese islands in the western Pacific Ocean at the eastern limit This article is about the People's Republic of China province A group of 36 Chinese families moved to Okinawa around 1392 for the purpose of cultural exchange. The political centralization of Okinawa by King Shohashi in 1429 and the 'Policy of Banning Weapons,' enforced in Okinawa after the invasion of the Shimazu clan in 1609, are also factors that furthered the development of Okinawan unarmed combat techniques. The were the Daimyō of the Satsuma han, which spread over Satsuma, Ōsumi and Hyūga provinces in Japan. ^[2]

There were few formal styles of ti, but rather many practitioners with their own methods. One surviving example is the Motobu-ryu school passed down from the Motobu family by Seikichi Uehara. Motobu-ryu is one of oldest schools of Karate founded by Choki Motobu. ^[19] Early styles of karate are often generalized as Shuri-te, Naha-te, and Tomari-te, named after the three cities from which they emerged. Okinawan martial arts refers to the Martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island, most notably Karate, Tegumi, Okinawan martial arts refers to the Martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island, most notably Karate, Tegumi, Okinawan martial arts refers to the Martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island, most notably Karate, Tegumi, ^[20] Each area and its teachers had particular kata, techniques, and principles that distinguished their local version of ti from the others.

Members of the Okinawan upper classes were sent to China regularly to study various political and practical disciplines. The incorporation of empty-handed Chinese wu shu into Okinawan martial arts occurred partly because of these exchanges. Kung fu and wushu are popular terms that have become synonymous with Chinese Martial arts. Many karate kata bear a strong resemblance to Fujian martial arts such as Fujian White Crane, Five Ancestors, and Gangrou-quan (Hard Soft Fist; pronounced "Gōjūken" in Japanese). The legend of the White Crane The Fāng family lived in Fujian, a province of China, in a place where there were many cranes Qīniáng's father Hard and soft in Martial arts refer to the way techniques deal with the Force of an attack ^[21] Further influence came from Southeast Asia— particularly Sumatra, Java, and Melaka. Sumatra (also spelled Sumatera) is the sixth largest island in the world (approximately 470000 km² and is the largest island entirely in Indonesia (two Java (Jawa is an Island of Indonesia and the site of its Capital city Jakarta. The similarities between karate and silat may be found in the unarmed forms and in the weapon forms. Silat is an umbrella term used to describe the martial art forms practiced throughout the Malay Archipelago. Many Okinawan weapons such as the sai, tonfa, and nunchaku originated in and around Southeast Asia. For other meanings of the word 'sai' see Sai (disambiguation. The tonfa, also known as tong fa or tuifa, is a traditional Okinawan weapon from which the modern side-handled police baton is derived The nunchaku ( Chinese: 雙節棍双截棍 shuāng jié gùn; 兩節棍两截棍 liǎng jié gùn "Dual Section Staff" 二節棍二截棍

Sakukawa Kanga (1782–1838) had studied pugilism and staff (bo) fighting in China (according to one legend, under the guidance of Kosokun, originator of kusanku kata). was an Okinawan martial artist who played a major role in the development of Te, the precursor to modern Karate. Boxing (sometimes also known as English boxing or pugilism) is a Combat sport in which two participants generally of similar weight, The Chinese word Gun ( refers to a long Chinese staff Weapon used in Chinese martial arts. Kusanku, also called Kanku dai (観空大 (translated as gazing heavenward, viewing the sky, or contemplating the sky) is an open hand In 1806 he started teaching a fighting art in the city of Shuri that he called "Tudi Sakukawa," which meant "Sakukawa of China Hand. Shuri may refer to Shuri Bhutan Shuri Japan " This was the first known recorded reference to the art of "Tudi," written as 唐手. Around the 1820s Sakukawa's most significant student Matsumura Sokon (1809–1899) taught a synthesis of te (Shuri-te and Tomari-te) and Shaolin (Chinese 少林) styles. Year 1820 ( MDCCCXX) was a Leap year starting on Saturday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Leap year was one of the original Karate masters of Okinawa. His life is reported variously as (c Shaolin Kung Fu refers to a collection of Chinese martial arts that claim affiliation with the Shaolin Monastery. Matsumura's style would later become the Shorin-ryū style. is one of the major modern Okinawan martial arts. Said to have been founded by Sokon Matsumura during the 1800s Shorin-ryu combines elements of the traditional Okinawan

Ankō Itosu
Grandfather of Modern Karate

Matsumura taught his art to Itosu Ankō (1831–1915) among others. is considered by many the father of modern Karate, although this title is also often given to Gichin Funakoshi because the latter spread karate throughout Japan Itosu adapted two forms he had learned from Matsumara. These are kusanku and chiang nan. He created the ping'an forms ("heian" or "pinan" in Japanese) which are simplified kata for beginning students. In 1901 Itosu helped to get karate introduced into Okinawa's public schools. These forms were taught to children at the elementary school level. Itosu's influence in karate is broad. The forms he created are common across nearly all styles of karate. His students became some of the most well known karate masters, including Gichin Funakoshi, Kenwa Mabuni, and Choki Motobu. was one of the first Karateka to teach Karate on mainland Japan and is creditied as developing the style known as Shito-ryu (糸東流 The Okinawan Karateka, younger brother of Karateka Choyu Motobu, was born in Akahira Village in Shuri Okinawa. Itosu is sometimes referred to as "the Grandfather of Modern Karate. "^[22]

In 1881 Higaonna Kanryo returned from China after years of instruction with Ryu Ryu Ko and founded what would become Naha-te. was a native of Nishi-shin-machi Naha, Okinawa. He was born into a merchant family whose business was selling firewood an expensive commodity in the Ryukyu Islands Okinawan martial arts refers to the Martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island, most notably Karate, Tegumi, One of his students was the founder of Goju-ryu, Chojun Miyagi. (Japanese for "hard-soft style" is one of the main traditional Okinawan styles of Karate, featuring a combination of hard and soft techniques was a Ryukyuan martial artist who founded the Goju-ryu school of Karate. Chojun Miyagi taught such well-known karateka as Seko Higa (who also trained with Higaonna), Meitoku Yagi, Miyazato Ei'ichi, and Seikichi Toguchi. Higa Sekō (比嘉 世幸 1889&ndash1966 was a Karate teacher Meitoku Yagi (八木明徳 Yagi Meitoku, March 6, 1912 - February 7, 2003) was born in Naha, Okinawa. For many years the all-Japan Police Judo champion Miyazato Ei'ichi Sensei trained in Goju Ryu Karate under Miyagi Chojun for the longest of all the seniors Seikichi Toguchi (b May 20, 1917 in Naha City, Okinawa, Japan - d

In addition to the three early ti styles of karate a fourth Okinawan influence is that of Kanbun Uechi (1877–1948). Kanbun Uechi (上地 完文 Uechi Kanbun, May 5, 1877 &ndash November 25, 1948) was the founder of Uechi-ryū, one At the age of 20 he went to Fuzhou in Fujian Province, China, to escape Japanese military conscription. ( Foochow Romanized: Hók-ciŭ EFEO: Fou-Tcheou also seen as Foochow, Fuchow, Fuh-chau or Hokchew in earlier Western While there he studied under Shushiwa. He was a leading figure of Chinese Nanpa Shorin-ken at that time. Nam Pai Chuan is a Shaolin kung fu style with centres in the UK, Belgium, France, New Zealand, Canada, Japan ^[23] He later developed his own style of Uechi-ryu karate based on the Sanchin, Seisan, and Sanseiryu kata that he had studied in China. is a traditional style of Okinawan Karate. The founder of Uechi Ryū was Kanbun Uechi (上地完文(1877-1948 an Okinawan who went to Fuzhou in ^[24]

Japan

See also: Japanese martial arts

Masters of karate in Tokyo (c. Japanese martial arts refers to the enormous variety of Martial arts native to Japan. 1930s)
Kanken Toyama, Hironori Ohtsuka, Takeshi Shimoda, Gichin Funakoshi, Choki Motobu, Kenwa Mabuni, Genwa Nakasone, and Shinken Taira (from left to right)

Gichin Funakoshi, founder of Shotokan karate, is generally credited with having introduced and popularized karate on the main islands of Japan. Gichin Funakoshi (船越 義珍 Funakoshi Gichin, November 10 1868 – April 26 1957) was the creator of Shotokan Actually many Okinawans were actively teaching, and are thus equally responsible for the development of karate. Funakoshi was a student of both Asato Ankō and Itosu Ankō (who had worked to introduce karate to the Okinawa Prefectural School System in 1902). was an Okinawan master of Karate. He and Ankō Itosu were the two main karate masters who taught Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shōtōkan-ryū is considered by many the father of modern Karate, although this title is also often given to Gichin Funakoshi because the latter spread karate throughout Japan During this time period, prominent teachers who also influenced the spread of karate in Japan included Kenwa Mabuni, Chojun Miyagi, Choki Motobu, Kanken Tōyama, and Kanbun Uechi. was one of the first Karateka to teach Karate on mainland Japan and is creditied as developing the style known as Shito-ryu (糸東流 was a Ryukyuan martial artist who founded the Goju-ryu school of Karate. The Okinawan Karateka, younger brother of Karateka Choyu Motobu, was born in Akahira Village in Shuri Okinawa. Kanken Tōyama (遠山寛賢 Tōyama Kanken 24 September 1888 – 24 November 1966) was a Japanese schoolteacher and Karate This was a turbulent period in history in the region. It includes Japan's annexation of the Okinawan island group in 1874, the First Sino-Japanese War (1894–1895), the Russo-Japanese War (1904–1905), the annexation of Korea, and the rise of Japanese expansionism (1905–1945). The First Sino-Japanese War ( 日清戦争 Romaji: Nisshin Sensō ( 1 August 1894 – 17 April 1895) was a war fought between The Russo-Japanese War (日露戦争 Romaji: Nichi-Ro Sensō Русско-японская война Russko-Yaponskaya Voyna;, 10 February 1904 – 5 September refers to the Ideology in the Empire of Japan that Militarism should dominate the political and social life of the nation and that the strength of the military is

Japan was invading China at the time, and Funakoshi knew that the art of Tang/China hand would not be accepted; thus the change of the art's name to "way of the empty hand. The Second Sino-Japanese War ( July 7, 1937 to September 9, 1945) was a major war fought between the Republic of China and the The Tang Dynasty ( Middle Chinese: dhɑng (June 18 618&ndashJune 4 907 was an imperial dynasty of China preceded by the Sui Dynasty and followed by " The dō suffix implies that karatedō is a path to self knowledge, not just a study of the technical aspects of fighting. Like most martial arts practiced in Japan, karate made its transition from -jutsu to -dō around the beginning of the 20th century. The twentieth century of the Common Era began on The "dō" in "karate-dō" sets it apart from karate "jutsu", as aikido is distinguished from aikijutsu, judo from jujutsu, iaido from iaijutsu and Taido from Taijutsu. originally called, is a Japanese martial art that first became widely known in the early 20th century under the Headmastership of Takeda Sokaku literally meaning the " art of softness " or "way of yielding" is a collective name for Japanese martial art styles consisting of grappling is a Japanese martial art associated with the smooth controlled movements of drawing the Sword from its Scabbard, striking or cutting an opponent removing blood often translated roughly as the "art of mental presence and immediate reaction" is the Japanese martial art of drawing the sword Founding Eventually Shukumine became convinced that the limitations of karate lay in its linear mode of training literally meaning "body skill" or "body art" is a term for Japanese martial arts techniques that rely on a science of body movements

Gichin Funakoshi
Founder of Shotokan Karate

Funakoshi changed the names of many kata and the name of the art itself (at least on mainland Japan), doing so to get karate accepted by the Japanese budo organization Dai Nippon Butoku Kai. is a Japanese term describing Martial arts. In English it is used almost exclusively in reference to Japanese martial arts. In 1895, with the sanction of the Emperor Meiji, the was established Funakoshi also gave Japanese names to many of the kata. The five pinan forms became known as heian, the three naihanchi forms became known as tekki, seisan as hangetsu, chinto as gankaku, wanshu as empi, and so on. These were mostly political changes, rather than changes to the content of the forms, although Funakoshi did introduce some such changes. Funakoshi had trained in two of the popular branches of Okinawan karate of the time, Shorin-ryū and Shorei-ryū. In Japan he was influenced by kendo, incorporating some ideas about distancing and timing into his style. He always referred to what he taught as simply karate, but in 1936 he built the Shotokan dojo in Tokyo and the style he left behind is usually called Shotokan.

The modernization and systemization of karate in Japan also included the adoption of the white uniform that consisted of the kimono and the dogi or keikogi—mostly called just karategi—and colored belt ranks. The is the National costume of Japan. Originally the word "kimono" literally meant thing to wear ( ki wearing and mono thing but now has come or dōgi ( is a uniform for training used in Japanese martial arts Budo. or dōgi ( is a uniform for training used in Japanese martial arts Budo. Karategi (空手着 or 空手衣 is the Japanese name for the Karate training uniform Both of these innovations were originated and popularized by Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo and one of the men Funakoshi consulted in his efforts to modernize karate.

In 1922, Hironori Ohtsuka attended the Tokyo Sports Festival, where he saw Funakoshi's karate. Ohtsuka was so impressed with this that he visited Funakoshi many times during his stay. Funakoshi was, in turn, impressed by Ohtsuka's enthusiasm and determination to understand karate, and agreed to teach him. In the following years, Ohtsuka set up a medical practice dealing with martial arts injuries. His prowess in martial arts led him to become the Chief Instructor of Shindō Yōshin-ryū jujutsu at the age of 30, and an assistant instructor in Funakoshi's dojo. meaning "New Way of the Willow Heart School" is a traditional school ( Koryū) of Japanese martial arts, teaching primarily the art of Jujutsu

By 1929, Ohtsuka was registered as a member of the Japan Martial Arts Federation. Okinawan karate at this time was only concerned with kata. Ohtsuka thought that the full spirit of budō, which concentrates on defence and attack, was missing, and that kata techniques did not work in realistic fighting situations. is a Japanese term describing Martial arts. In English it is used almost exclusively in reference to Japanese martial arts. He experimented with other, more combative styles such as judo, kendo, and aikido. He blended the practical and useful elements of Okinawan karate with traditional Japanese martial arts techniques from jujitsu and kendo, which led to the birth of kumite, or free fighting, in karate. Kumite (組手 means Sparring, and is one of the three main sections of Karate training along with kata and Kihon. Ohtsuka thought that there was a need for this more dynamic type of karate to be taught, and he decided to leave Funakoshi to concentrate on developing his own style of karate: Wadō-ryū. In 1934, Wadō-ryū karate was officially recognized as an independent style of karate. This recognition meant a departure for Ohtsuka from his medical practice and the fulfilment of a life's ambition—to become a full-time martial artist.

Ohtsuka's personalized style of Karate was officially registered in 1938 after he was awarded the rank of Renshi-go. He presented a demonstration of Wado-ryu karate for the Japan Martial Arts Federation. They were so impressed with his style and commitment that they acknowledged him as a high-ranking instructor. The next year the Japan Martial Arts Federation asked all the different styles to register their names; Ohtsuka registered the name Wado-Ryu. In 1944, Ohtsuka was appointed Japan's Chief Karate Instructor.

Isshin-ryū is a style of Okinawan karate founded by Shimabuku Tatsuo, a student of Motobu Choki, and named by him on January 15, 1956. is a style of Okinawan Karate founded by Tatsuo Shimabuku and named by him on 15 January 1956. Shimabuku Tatsuo (島袋 龍夫 September 19, 1908 – May 30, 1975) was the founder of Isshin-ryū ("Whole Heart Style" Events 588 BC - Nebuchadrezzar II of Babylon lays siege to Jerusalem under Zedekiah 's reign Year 1956 ( MCMLVI) was a Leap year starting on Sunday (link will display full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. Isshin-ryū karate is largely a synthesis of Shorin-ryū karate, Gojū-ryū karate, and Kobudo. The name means, literally, "one heart method. " The style, while not very popular in Okinawa, spread to the United States via the Marines stationed on the island after they returned home, and has also spread to other countries. After the passing of Shimabuku, many variations of the system formed and exist to this day.

A new form of karate called Kyokushin was developed in 1964 by Masutatsu Oyama (who was born a Korean, Choi Yeong-Eui). is a style of stand-up, Full contact karate, founded in 1964 by who was born under the name Choi Yong-I (최영의 Masutatsu Oyama (大山倍達 Ōyama Masutatsu) also known as Mas Oyama, was a Karate master who founded Kyokushinkai arguably the Kyokushin taught a curriculum that emphasized contact, physical toughness, and practical application of karate techniques to self-defense situations. Because of its emphasis on physical, full-force sparring, Kyokushin is now often called "full contact karate. Sparring is a form of Training common to many Martial arts. Although the precise form varies it is essentially relatively 'free-form' fighting with enough rules Full contact karate is a term used to differentiate between schools that spar full contact and those that use light contact point sparring " Many other karate organizations based are descended from the Kyokushin curriculum.

The Federation of All Japan Karatedo Organization recognizes four traditional styles of karate:

• Shōtōkan-ryū
• Shitō-ryū
• Gōjū-ryū
• Wadō-ryū

Styles that do not belong to one of these schools are not necessarily considered to be 'illegitimate' or 'bad' karate, but simply not one of the traditional schools. Federation of All Japan Karatedo Organization or FAJKO, is the original name of the national body for Karate in Japan For example, the styles listed by the World Union of Karate-do Organizations (WUKO)^[25] are Gōjū-ryū, Shitō-ryū, Shōtōkan-ryū, Wadō-ryū, Shōrin-ryū, Uechi-ryū, Kyokushinkai, and Budōkan. (Japanese for "hard-soft style" is one of the main traditional Okinawan styles of Karate, featuring a combination of hard and soft techniques is a form of Karate that was founded in 1931 by. History Kenwa Mabuni was born in Shuri, a district of Naha, Okinawa in 1889 is a school of Karate, developed from various Martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi (1868–1957 and his son Yoshitaka Funakoshi (1906–1945 is a school of Karate founded by Hironori Ōtsuka. Originally a unified school three organizations now teach the Wadō-ryū style the Japan Karatedo Federation is one of the major modern Okinawan martial arts. Said to have been founded by Sokon Matsumura during the 1800s Shorin-ryu combines elements of the traditional Okinawan is a traditional style of Okinawan Karate. The founder of Uechi Ryū was Kanbun Uechi (上地完文(1877-1948 an Okinawan who went to Fuzhou in is a style of stand-up, Full contact karate, founded in 1964 by who was born under the name Choi Yong-I (최영의 is a style of Karate recognized by the World Union of Karate-do Organizations ( WUKO Many schools would be affiliated with, or heavily influenced by, one or more of these traditional styles.

Issues within Karate

Dishonest Practice

Due to the popularity of martial arts, both in mass media and real life, a large number of disreputable, fraudulent, or misguided teachers and schools have arisen over the last 40 years or so. Martial arts are systems of codified practices and traditions of training for Combat. Commonly referred to as a "McDojo" or a "Black Belt Mill," these schools are frequently headed by martial artists of either dubious skill, dubious business ethics, or both. McDojo is a Pejorative term used by some Western Martial artists to describe a martial arts school where image or profit is of a higher importance than technical

Kata and Kobudo

Many applications from karate kata seem very mysterious or impractical. Nathan Johnson claims that most antique karate kata were developed for use with weapons rather than as open hand techniques. ^[26]

Karate outside Japan

Korea

Due to past conflict between Korea and Japan, most notably during the Japanese occupation in the 20th century, the influence of karate on Korean martial arts is a contentious issue. Korea under Japanese rule refers to the period between 1910 and 1945 when Korea was forcibly annexed by the Japanese Empire. During the occupation, many Koreans went to Japan^[27] and were exposed to Japanese martial arts. After regaining independence from Japan, many Korean martial arts schools were founded by masters with training in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean martial arts.

For example, Hong Hi Choi, a significant figure in taekwondo history had studied Shotokan karate under Gichin Funakoshi. Choi Hong Hi ( 최홍희; 崔泓熙; 9 November 1918–15 June 2002 also known as General Choi, was a South Korean army General Taekwondo (Korean태권도thɛʔkwʌndo Englishˈteɪˈkwɒnˈdoʊ is a Korean Martial art and the National sport of South Korea Karate also provided an important comparative model for the early founders of taekwondo in the formalization of their art inheriting some kata and the belt rank system. The Korean terms hyeong, pumsae and teul (meaning "form" or "pattern" are all used to refer to Martial arts forms that are Taekwondo (Korean태권도thɛʔkwʌndo Englishˈteɪˈkwɒnˈdoʊ is a Korean Martial art and the National sport of South Korea It should be noted that contemporary taekwondo is technically very different from karate (e. Taekwondo (Korean태권도thɛʔkwʌndo Englishˈteɪˈkwɒnˈdoʊ is a Korean Martial art and the National sport of South Korea g. relies much more on legs than hands, involves high kicks on the heels, more jumps, etc).

Soviet Union

Karate appeared in the Soviet Union in the mid-1960s, during Khruschev's policy of improved international relations, and the first Shotokan clubs were opened in Moscow's universities. The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR was a constitutionally Socialist state that existed in Eurasia from 1922 to 1991 Nikita Sergeyevich Khrushchev (April 17 1894 – September 11 1971 served as First Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union from 1953 to 1964 following In 1973, however, the government banned karate—together with all other foreign martial arts—endorsing only the Soviet martial art of sambo. Sambo (самбо—also called Sombo or Cambo and sometimes written in all-caps is a modern Martial art, combat sport and Self-defense Karate schools went underground and lost all international contacts, evolving and mutating wildly. Failing to suppress these uncontrolled groups, the USSR's Sport Committee formed the Karate Federation of USSR in December 1978. This was an exclusive, state-controlled organization with rules and methods intentionally incompatible with all foreign karate federations. On 17 May 1984, the Soviet Karate Federation was disbanded and all karate became illegal again. In 1988, karate practice became legal again, but under strict government regulations. Only after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1992 did independent karate schools resume functioning, and so federations were formed and national tournaments in authentic styles began. The Soviet Union 's collapse into independent nations began early in 1985 ^[28]

United States

Karate entered the United States through members of the US military who had learned it in Okinawa or Japan and opened schools on their return. The United States of America —commonly referred to as the The United States Armed Forces are the overall unified military forces of the United States In 1945 Robert Trias opened the first martial arts school in the United States in Phoenix, Arizona, a Shuri-ryu karate dojo. Robert A Trias (1923 – 1989 founded a Karate school in the United States. This accomplishment earned him the title of “Father of American Karate”. In the 1950's, Edward Kaloudis, William Dometrich (Chito-ryu), Ed Parker (Kenpo), Jhoon Rhee (Tae Kwon Do), Cecil Paterson (Wado-ryu), Gordon Doversola (Okinawa-te), Louis Kowlowski, Don Nagle (Isshin-ryu), George Mattson (Uechi-ryu), and Peter Urban (Goju-kai) all began instructing in the US.

In the 1960's, Jay Trombley (Shoreikan Goju-ryu), Anthony Mirakian (Goju-ryu), Steve Armstrong, Bruce Terrill, Richard Kim (Shorinji-ryu), Teruyuki Okazaki (Shotokan), John Pachivas, Allen Steen, Chuck Norris (Tang Soo Do), Sea Oh Choi (Hapkido), Gosei Yamaguchi (Goju-ryu), and J Pat Burleson all began teaching martial arts around the country. ^[29]

In 1961 Hidetaka Nishiyama, a co-founder of the JKA and student of Gichin Funakoshi began teaching in the United States. Year 1961 ( MCMLXI) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. Hidetaka Nishiyama (born October 10 1928 is a Japanese -American martial arts master instructor author administrator and pioneer The Japan Karate Association (or JKA; known in Japanese as Nihon Karate Kyokai, or sometimes just "kyokai" among karateka The United States of America —commonly referred to as the ^[30] As a trial case in spreading the art of karate, Masatoshi Nakayama arrange to send Teruyuki Okazaki to the United States in 1961 where he started a karate dojo in Philadelphia. Masatoshi Nakayama ( 中山正敏, Nakayama Masatoshi, 1913&ndash1987 was a high-ranking master of Shotokan Karate -dō the first who achieved Teruyuki Okazaki (b June 22, 1931) a tenth degree black belt in Shotokan Karate, is the founder chairman and chief instructor of the Philadelphia (ˌfɪləˈdɛlfiə Takayuki Mikami were sent by the JKA in 1963. is an eighth degree black belt in the Martial art of Shotokan Karate. Year 1963 ( MCMLXIII) was a Common year starting on Tuesday (link will display full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. ^[31]

United Kingdom

In the 1950s and 1960s, several Japanese karate masters began to teach the art in the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom, the UK or Britain,is a Sovereign state located In 1965, Tatsuo Suzuki began teaching Wadō-ryū in London. In 1966, members of the former British Karate Federation established the Karate Union of Great Britain (KUGB) under Hirokazu Kanazawa as chief instructor^[32] and affiliated to JKA. The Karate Union of Great Britain, or KUGB is an association of Shotokan Karate clubs and Karateka operating across Great Britain (b 1931 is a world renowned Shotokan Karate instructor He is currently the Chief instructor and President of Shotokan Karate-do International Federation, an The Japan Karate Association (or JKA; known in Japanese as Nihon Karate Kyokai, or sometimes just "kyokai" among karateka Keinosuke Enoeda came to England at the same time as Kanazawa, teaching at a dojo in Liverpool. Keinosuke Enoeda (1935-2003 was chief instructor of the KUGB until his premature death due to cancer Kanazawa left the UK after 3 years and Enoeda took over. After Enoeda’s death in 2003, the KUGB elected Andy Sherry as Chief Instructor. Shortly after this, a new association split off from KUGB, JKA England. JKA England (JKAE is the official Japanese Karate Association ( JKA) organisation for Shotokan karate in England and Wales

Karate in film and popular culture

Karate spread rapidly in the West through popular culture. In 1950s popular fiction, karate was at times described to readers in near-mythical terms, and it was credible to show Western experts of unarmed combat as unaware of Eastern martial arts of this kind. The 1950s Decade refers to the years of 1950 to 1959 inclusive Martial arts are systems of codified practices and traditions of training for Combat. ^[33] By the 1970s, martial arts films had formed a mainstream genre that propelled karate and other Asian martial arts into mass popularity. This article is about the Decade 1970-1979 For the Year 1970 see 1970. For other uses see Martial arts (disambiguation Martial arts film is a Film genre that originated in the Pacific Rim.

The Karate Kid (1984) is a film relating the fictional story of an American adolescent's introduction into karate. The Karate Kid is a 1984 Film directed by Phillip Ali, and starring Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita and Elisabeth Shue

Some well-known stars who have related styles are:

• Jean-Claude Van Damme - Shotokan
• Fumio Demura - Shito ryu
• Dolph Lundgren - Kyokushin
• Sonny Chiba - Kyokushin
• Michael Jai White - Kyokushin, Shotokan, Goju ryu

See also

• Comparison of karate styles
• Japanese martial arts
• Karate stances
• Karate kata
• Okinawan martial arts
• List of martial arts

References

External links

• Karate, Okinawan Kobudo and Kendo Kata videos.
• Karate Records - WKF results and charts
• Okinawan karate
• History of Ranking in Karate
• Hokubei Shihankai - Japanese Karate Masters Association of North America