Combat pit official logo black
Back to Glossary
Home
Search
Martial Arts Culture and History
Gear and Equipment
Personalities
Skill Development
Mind and Body Connection
Weapons and Traditional Tools
Martial arts map
Complete blog posts directory
Contact

Karate

What is Karate?

Karate is a traditional martial art that originated in Okinawa, Japan. It focuses on striking techniques such as punches, kicks, knee strikes, and elbow strikes, as well as open-hand techniques like knife-hands and spear-hands. Karate also includes various blocking techniques, stances, and forms known as katas, which are sequences of movements that simulate defense and attack scenarios.

Karate is practiced for self-defense, physical fitness, and mental discipline. It emphasizes principles such as respect, humility, and perseverance. Practitioners often wear a white uniform called a gi and progress through different belt ranks, starting from white belt and advancing to black belt and beyond, based on their skill level and knowledge.

In addition to its traditional aspects, Karate has also evolved into a competitive sport, with tournaments featuring both kata (forms) and kumite (sparring) events.

Related Article: Journey into the World of Karate: A Dynamic Japanese Martial Art

Train to be able to defend yourself against any attack, and at the same time, retain your good heart towards other people. Don't allow bad people to turn your heart hard, but always be ready to defend yourself should you have to.
Bohdi Sanders

Check out the latest blogs

See all articles

Other Glossary terms

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Biomechanics
Biomechanics is the scientific study of the mechanical principles of living organisms, particularly their movement and structure.
B
Kyudo
Kyudo is the Japanese martial art of archery, which translates to "the way of the bow." It is deeply rooted in the traditions of Japanese culture and combines physical, mental, and spiritual elements.
K
Brass Knuckles or Knuckle Dusters
Brass knuckles, also known as knuckle dusters, are handheld weapons designed to fit around the knuckles.
B
Yin and Yang
Yin and Yang are fundamental concepts in Chinese philosophy and culture, representing the idea of dualism and the interconnectedness of opposites.
Y
Zanshin
Zanshin is a fundamental concept in Japanese martial arts, referring to a state of relaxed alertness and total awareness. Practitioners cultivate zanshin to maintain vigilance before, during, and after combat.
Z
Katame-Waza
Katame-Waza refers to the grappling or groundwork techniques in Judo.
K
Muay Thai Jump Rope
Muay Thai jump rope is a form of jump rope exercise specifically tailored for Muay Thai practitioners.
M
Atemi-Waza
Atemi-Waza refers to striking techniques in traditional Japanese martial arts, including Judo, Aikido, and Karate.
A
Sumo
Sumo is a traditional Japanese form of wrestling that has a rich history and cultural significance in Japan.
S
Static Flexibility
Static flexibility refers to the ability to hold a stretch in a stationary position, extending a muscle to its furthest point and maintaining that position for a period of time.
S
Dojo
A Dojo is a term used in Japanese martial arts to refer to a formal training hall or place where practitioners gather to train, study, and practice their martial art.
D
Tai Chi
Tai Chi, also known as Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan), is a traditional Chinese martial art that is practiced both for its defense training and its health benefits.
T
Lohan Hands
Lohan Hands, also known as "Luohan Hands" or "Arhat Hands," is a term associated with a set of exercises or forms in traditional Chinese martial arts and Qigong, particularly within the Shaolin tradition.
L
Shaolin Kung Fu
Shaolin Kung Fu, also known as Shaolin Wushu, is a traditional Chinese martial art that originated from the Shaolin Monastery in Henan Province, China.
S
Aikido
Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art that focuses on harmonizing with an opponent's energy to neutralize the threat without causing serious harm.
A
No Items Found