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What is Karate?
Taken from the book Karate the art of "empty hand"fighting
by
Hidetaka Nishiyama & Richard C.Brown
The literal meaning of the two Japanese characters which make up the word "karate" is "empty hands." This, of course, refers simply to the fact that karate originated as a system of selfdefense which relied on the effective use of the unarmed body of its practitioner. This system consisted of techniques of blocking or thwarting an attack and counterattacking the opponent by punching, striking, or kicking. The modern art of karate was developed out of a more thorough organization and rationalization of these techniques. And the three branches of presentday karateas a physical art, as a sport, and as self defenseare all based on the use of these same fundamental techniques.
Karate as a means of selfdefense has the oldest history, going back hundreds of years, but it is only in recent years that the techniques which have been handed down were scientifically studied and principles evolved for making the most effective use of the various movements of the body.. Training based on these principles and knowledge of the working of the muscles and joints and the vital relation between movement and balance enable the modern student of karate to be prepared, both physically and psychologically, to defend himself successfully against any wouldbe assailant.
As a physical art, karate is almost without equal. Since it is highly dynamic and makes balanced use of a large number of body muscles, it provides excellent allaround exercise, and develops coordination and agility. Many girls and women in Japan have taken up karate, since in addition to its usefulness as selfdefense, it is especially good for the figure. It is widely practiced by both children and older people as a means of keeping in top physical shape, and many schools are promoting it as a physical art among their students.
As a sport, karate has a relatively short history. However, contest rules have been devised, and it is now possible to hold actual matches, as in other competitive sports. Because of the speed and variety of its techniques and the splitsecond timing it calls for, 'Many athleticminded people have come to show an interest in competitive karate, and there is every indication that it will continue to grow in popularity.