Karate Classes

Karate is a highly disciplined martial art. The two Japanese characters that comprise the word Karate means “empty hands”.   It is dynamic and uses a wide array of muscles in the body.  Its system consists of using techniques in blocking or thwarting attacks along with counter attacks using open-handed techniques with punching, kicking and knee and elbow strikes as a striking art.  The approach of Karate in terms of training is quite impressive.  It doesn’t merely attend to the physical needs and physical improvement but it bases on living out its principles. The knowledge of the processes and relationship between the muscles and joints with movement and balance are learned with precision.  Its practice is divided into the elements of kihon (basics), kata (forms) and kumite (sparring) which are all interconnected.
Moreover, it also concentrates on mental discipline.  “Kara” in Karate means “purge oneself of selfish and evil thoughts”.  Karate believes that it is only with a clear mind and conscience that a person will be able to truly inculcate the knowledge he deserves.  Moreover, its principles stress the importance of humility paired with outward gentleness.  Listening should be openly practiced and criticism must be readily accepted to provide an opportunity for learning.  The knowledge acquired must be respected in a way that Karate must only be applied in situations wherein you are unavoidably drawn to defend yourself.  That is why Karate not only develops your muscles and physical coordination but it helps in building a strong character within you.
Karate’s history is somewhat obscure but most researchers and historians believe that it dates way back in the 5th or 6th century A.D. when a young Buddhist monk by the name of Bodhidharma arrived in Shaolin-si in China from India and taught Zen Buddhism.  His teachings became some of the foundation of Chinese martial arts.  These teachings then reached the Ryukyu Kingdom through visitors from China and also, because of cultural exchange, a huge majority of Chinese families moved to Okinawa.  Thus an exchange in Chinese arts and sciences involving martial arts took place.   These events coupled with the banning of weapons in Okinawa and further led to the development of fighting methods without using any weapons or Karate.
Karate originally came into being as means of unarmed self-defense rooting from exercises that revolves around a principle that seeks to strengthen the mind and body.  Right now, it has evolved to be a widely accepted way to stay healthy and fit by improving balance, coordination, flexibility, alertness and body figure as well its flexibility to be considered as a sport.  Competitions center on demonstrations of different styles and levels of techniques, breaking, weapons use and sparring.  Its practice however entails more safety as martial arts mats are provided to ensure the safety of the fighters.