The Benefits of Karate

Whether you’re a kid or an adult, karate offers a way to get in shape and improve your self-defense skills. But a bigger benefit is that it builds confidence and teaches you to be a better person.

Unlike most sports, karate is more than just hitting a ball or kicking a ball. The art is about discipline and respect, the ability to control one’s emotions and to understand the value of perseverance. Those lessons carry over into life outside of the dojo.

Master Gichin Funakoshi created the Niju Kun or Twenty Precepts of Karate, which are rooted in bushido and Zen. This philosophy translates into a karate lifestyle that develops a stronger character, a more clear thought process and deeper insight into mental capabilities. It also promotes proficiency in the keen coordination of mind and body.

Training includes kihon (basics), kata, bunkai and sparring. In addition, traditional Okinawan karate includes supplementary training like hojo undo. This includes the makiwara (striking post), nigiri game and other equipment to strengthen grip strength, flexibility, stamina, endurance and power.

Karate is divided into several sport and traditional styles with their own cultures, kata and weapons. Many of these styles are rooted in the historical Okinawan parent styles of Naha-te, Tomari-te and Shuri-te.

Karate competitions are referred to as kumite and may be closed, allowing only members of the participating style, or open, permitting students of any other style to compete. In a kumite match, each participant is scored on the quality of his or her techniques and shown an overall rank after the competition.