Karate-do (Okinawa - Japan) Karate, or Karate-do in full, is a martial art that originated in the province of Okinawa, now part of Japan. Karate is primarily a standing martial art with an emphasis on punching and kicking techniques, knee and elbow strikes (in some styles), and open-hand techniques such as knife strikes.
There are several schools or styles within Karate-do, each with its own specific execution of techniques and basic exercises, although the fundamental principles are more or less the same. In addition to strikes and kicks, throws, chokes, locks, and pressure point techniques are also practiced in some styles.
Karate literally means "empty hand" in Japanese. The term consists of two kanji characters: "kara" and "te". Someone who practices karate is called a karateka. The word "ka" is a suffix for Japanese martial artists. Other examples include budo-ka, judo-ka, and Jiu Jitsu-ka.
Materials for Karate
Karate always uses a uniform, called a gi. This is much more flexible and lighter than the comparable judo gi. During practice, the necessary protective equipment is also used: a mouthguard, groin guard, shin guards, and open gloves. Some schools and styles also use safety equipment: gloves and foot guards.
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