Karate

Karate is a Japanese striking martial art developed in the Ryukyu Kingdom (modern-day Okinawa) and systematised in mainland Japan in the early 20th century. Characterised by linear punches, powerful kicks, open-hand techniques and rigid stances, Karate encompasses dozens of distinct styles - each with its own emphasis, philosophy and competition format. From the elegant forms of Shotokan to the brutal full-contact fighting of Kyokushin, Karate has shaped combat sports worldwide and made its Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020.

Okinawan Roots

Karate's origins lie in Okinawa, where indigenous fighting arts (Te - 'hand') blended with Chinese martial arts (particularly Fujian White Crane kung fu) brought by traders and immigrants over centuries. Under Japanese occupation, Okinawans were prohibited from carrying weapons, accelerating the development of empty-hand combat systems. Three main regional traditions emerged: Shuri-te, Naha-te and Tomari-te - the ancestors of all modern Karate styles.

Gichin Funakoshi and the Mainland Introduction

Gichin Funakoshi (1868-1957) is universally regarded as the father of modern Karate. An Okinawan schoolteacher and martial artist, he introduced Karate to mainland Japan in 1922 with a landmark demonstration at the first National Athletic Exhibition in Tokyo. He founded the Shotokan style and established the Japan Karate Association (JKA), transforming Karate from a regional Okinawan tradition into a national Japanese martial art. His principle 'Karate ni sente nashi' - 'There is no first attack in Karate' - defines the art's defensive philosophy.

The Major Styles

Shotokan: Founded by Gichin Funakoshi. The most widely practised Karate style in the world. Characterised by long, deep stances, powerful linear techniques and a strong emphasis on Kata (forms). Governed by the Japan Karate Association (JKA). Used as the base style for WKF Olympic competition.

Kyokushin: Founded by Mas Oyama in 1964. The most brutal and physically demanding Karate style - full-contact fighting with no pads, no face punches, but full-power kicks and body punches allowed. Produced some of combat sports' toughest fighters including Andy Hug, Francisco Filho and Semmy Schilt. The foundation of many kickboxing and K-1 careers.

Goju-ryu: One of the original Okinawan styles, developed by Chojun Miyagi. Balances hard (go) and soft (ju) techniques - circular blocks, close-range strikes and breathing exercises. One of the four styles recognised by the World Karate Federation.

Shito-ryu: Founded by Kenwa Mabuni, combining elements of Shuri-te and Naha-te. Known for its large Kata syllabus - over 50 forms. Strong in Japan and popular in competition Karate.

Wado-ryu: Founded by Hironori Otsuka, blending Shotokan Karate with Jiu-Jitsu principles. Emphasises evasion and body shifting (tai sabaki) rather than direct blocking. One of the four WKF-recognised styles.

Shorin-ryu: One of the oldest Okinawan styles, direct descendant of Shuri-te. Fast, light footwork and natural stances. Multiple sub-lineages exist across Okinawa.

Uechi-ryu: Okinawan style with deep Chinese roots, particularly Pangai-noon kung fu. Known for circular techniques, open-hand strikes and toughening conditioning exercises.

Ashihara and Enshin: Offshoots of Kyokushin emphasising sabaki (circular movement) to redirect attackers and counter from angles. Popular in full-contact competition.

Karate and Combat Sports

Kyokushin Karate is the direct ancestor of K-1 and modern kickboxing - its full-contact format and tournament structure directly inspired the K-1 Grand Prix. Many of K-1's greatest champions - Andy Hug, Francisco Filho, Semmy Schilt - had deep Kyokushin roots. In MMA, Lyoto Machida brought traditional Shotokan Karate to the UFC, winning the Light Heavyweight title with elusive footwork and explosive counter-striking that baffled opponents trained in conventional MMA styles.

Training in Karate

Karate training is structured around three pillars: Kihon (basics - individual technique repetition), Kata (forms - pre-arranged sequences of techniques against imaginary opponents) and Kumite (sparring - applying techniques against a partner or competitor).

Competition Karate (WKF format) uses controlled point-scoring Kumite with light contact and protective equipment. Kyokushin and its offshoots use full-power body contact with no face punching. Kata competition judges technical execution, rhythm, power and martial spirit.

The belt system runs white through yellow, orange, green, blue, brown to black (dan grades), varying slightly by style and organisation. Traditional Karate training develops explosive power, precise timing, distancing and mental discipline.

Karate Gear Guide

Karate Gi (Karategi): Lighter and crisper than a Judo gi, designed for crisp technique and snap. Available in lightweight (Kata competition), medium and heavyweight (Kumite training) versions. White is standard; style-specific patches identify the school or association.

Kumite gloves: Lightweight open-finger gloves for WKF-style point sparring. Protect the hands and reduce impact during controlled contact. Red or blue for competition.

Foot protectors: Foam instep protectors for WKF Kumite competition. Protect the foot on kicks while allowing full feel and movement.

Shin guards: Used in full-contact and Kyokushin-style training. Hard-shell or foam depending on contact level.

Chest protector (men/women): Required in WKF competition for female competitors and junior divisions. Also used in full-contact training.

Mouthguard and groin guard: Essential for any sparring format. Non-negotiable safety equipment regardless of style.