Karate-do (Okinawa - Japan) Karate, fully known as Karate-do, is a martial art that originates from the province of Okinawa, which now belongs to Japan. Karate is primarily a standing martial art focusing on punching techniques, kicking techniques, knee and elbow strikes (in some styles), and open-hand techniques, such as palm strikes.
There are several branches 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. Besides punches and kicks, some styles also practice throws, chokes, joint locks, and pressure point techniques.
Karate literally means ‘empty hand’ in the Japanese language. The term consists of two ‘kanji’ characters: ‘kara’ and ‘te’. Someone who practices karate is called a karateka. The suffix ‘ka’ is used for Japanese martial artists. Other examples include: budo-ka, judo-ka, and Jiu Jitsu-ka.
Materials for Karate
In Karate, a uniform is always used, called the gi. It is more flexible and lighter than the comparable judo gi. Additionally, during training, the necessary protective gear is used: a mouthguard, groinguard, shin guards, and open gloves. In some schools and styles, so-called safety equipment is used: gloves and safety kicks.
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