Karate-do (Okinawa - Japan) Karate, actually Karate-do is a martial art that originates in the province of Okinawa, which now belongs to Japan. Karate is primarily a standing martial art with an emphasis on punching techniques, kicking techniques, knee and elbow strikes (in some styles) and open hand techniques, such as knife punches.
There are a number of movements or styles within Karate-do and each has its own specific implementation of techniques and basic exercises, although the basic principles are more or less the same. In addition to blows and kicks, throws, chokes, clamps and pressure point techniques are also practiced in some styles.
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 word 'ka' is a suffix for Japanese martial artists. More examples of this are: budo-ka, judo-ka and Jiu Jitsu .
Materials for Karate
Karate always uses a uniform, the so-called gi. This is a lot more flexible and lighter than the comparable judo gi. Furthermore, the necessary protectors are used during practice: a mouth guard , groin guard , shin guards and open gloves. In some schools and styles, so-called safety equipment is used: gloves and foot protectors.
